shrubN. America Native

Tifblue Rabbiteye Blueberry

Vaccinium virgatum 'Tifblue'

The Story

Plant Bio

Vaccinium virgatum 'Tifblue' (synonym V. ashei) is a vigorous, upright rabbiteye blueberry native at species level to the southeastern United States. It has spring flowers, light blue summer fruit and red fall foliage.

Tifblue is a late-season rabbiteye cultivar with small to medium fruit and good heat tolerance. Plant another compatible rabbiteye cultivar for better cross-pollination and fruit set.

Uses & Benefits:

White spring flowers, light blue summer berries and red fall foliage provide seasonal interest.

Produces nutritious, antioxidant-rich berries for fresh eating or baking.

Supports local pollinators and attracts birds with abundant fruit.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96"

Width

96"

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

Bloom period

Spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sunny location with well-draining acidic soil.
Plant a nursery-grown Tifblue bush and a compatible rabbiteye pollinator in spring or fall.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Apply acidic fertilizer in early spring for best growth.
Prune older canes in late winter while the plant is dormant.
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

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
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 Heuchera Hosta

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: in that range it survives winter in the ground. Colder than Zone 7, grow it in a container you can move to shelter for the winter. Warmer than Zone 9, winter isn't the problem: it prefers colder winters, and summer heat can shorten its life.

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. 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).