Vaccinium corymbosum 'Blueberry Sunshine Blue'

Species

Vaccinium corymbosumHighbush Blueberry

13 other cultivars

shrubN. America Native

Sunshine Blue Blueberry

Vaccinium corymbosum 'Blueberry Sunshine Blue'

Same species

Species

Vaccinium corymbosumHighbush Blueberry

13 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

10+ years

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets when ripe

The Story

Plant Bio

Sunshine Blue is a compact, self-pollinating blueberry bush that produces sweet berries. It features striking blue-green foliage that turns to a beautiful fiery red in the fall. This Southern Highbush cultivar is unique for its low chill requirement, allowing it to thrive in warmer climates. It is also more tolerant of higher pH soils than many other blueberry varieties.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Bright berries and evergreen foliage add visual appeal year-round.

Provides nutritious, antioxidant-rich fruit for fresh eating and cooking.

Supports pollinators and attracts beneficial insects.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny spot with well-draining, acidic soil for planting.
Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil, ensuring good contact with the ground.
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilize with an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and late summer.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune after harvest to shape and remove dead or weak branches.

Pro Tip

Use a pH tester to ensure soil remains acidic (around 4.5-5.5) for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck seeds in moist soil for good germination 🌱
Fertilize with acid-loving plant fertilizer in spring and summer
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t use alkaline fertilizers that raise soil pH
Refrain from heavy pruning during late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid edible hedge with vibrant berriesSweet-scented border for garden pathwaysColorful focal point in mixed beds

Companion Plants

Azaleas Rhododendrons Ferns Hollies Hostas

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sunshine Blue Blueberry questions

What zones can Sunshine Blue Blueberry grow in?

Sunshine Blue Blueberry is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sunshine Blue Blueberry deer resistant?

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

When does Sunshine Blue Blueberry bloom?

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

Does Sunshine Blue Blueberry need full sun?

Sunshine Blue Blueberry does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.