shrubN. America Native

Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry

Vaccinium corymbosum 'Tifblue'

Same species

Species

Vaccinium corymbosumHighbush Blueberry

13 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture, avoid drought stress

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

30+ years

Native To

Southeastern U.S.

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

'Tifblue' is a vigorous, upright Rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei), a deciduous shrub grown for its delicious, light blue berries. It has attractive glossy green leaves that turn red in the fall. A popular late-season variety, 'Tifblue' is known for its high yields, heat tolerance, and large, flavorful fruit. It requires cross-pollination with another rabbiteye variety for good fruit set.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVibrant blue flowers and berries add visual interest year-round.
Practical UsesProduces nutritious, antioxidant-rich berries for fresh eating or baking.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local pollinators and attracts birds with abundant fruit.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a sunny location with well-draining acidic soil.
  2. Tuck seeds or transplant young plants in early spring or fall.
  3. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Apply acidic fertilizer in early spring for best growth.
  5. Prune after harvest to maintain shape and promote fruiting.
  6. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil pH is below 6.0 for optimal blueberry growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently, especially during dry periods 💧
  • Apply acidic fertilizer in early spring 🌱
  • Prune to shape and encourage new growth ✂️

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not fertilize with alkaline fertilizers ❌
  • Keep away from heavy clay soils without proper amendments ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Harvest
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid berry-producing hedgeEdible garden borderWildlife-friendly edible landscape

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Azalea Heuchera Ferns Hostas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry questions

What zones can Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry grow in?

Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry bloom?

Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry typically blooms in spring through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry need full sun?

Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Keep exploring

Grow Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.