Vaccinium 
Flora Frost Vaccinium vitis-idaea Fireballs
| Leaf tip | Blunt/obtuse |
| Fruit type | Berry |
| Fruit shape | Rounded/globose |
| Leaf margin | Entire |
| Winter hardness | Good (USDA-zone 5, 6) |
| Fruit color | Red-dark purple red-053A |
| Leaf, general shape | Elongate |
| Plant height | 20 - 30 cm; 30 - 40 cm |
| Flowering month(s) | June; July |
| Leaf width | 1 - 2 cm |
| Leaf surface | Smooth |
| Fruit size | 1 - 10 mm |
| Leaf duration | Evergreen |
| Leaf size | 2 - 3 cm |
| Plant, growth type | Erect |
| Leaf, main color | Dark green |
| Leaf colour, pattern | Unicolored |
Vaccinium vitis-idaea, commonly known as Fireballs, is a versatile and hardy plant that goes by various names such as Bilberry, Red Bilberry, Mountain Cranberry, Crow Berry, Huckleberry, and Blueberry. Its unique characteristics make it a popular choice among gardeners and enthusiasts.
The leaves of the Vaccinium vitis-idaea Fireballs are identifiable by their blunt and obtuse tips. They have an elongated shape with smooth surfaces and a dark green color. The leaf margins are entire, adding to the plant's overall aesthetic appeal. These evergreen leaves have a width of 1-2 cm and a size of 2-3 cm, providing a lush and vibrant backdrop to the plant's captivating fruits.
Speaking of fruits, the Vaccinium vitis-idaea Fireballs bear small berries that are rounded or globose in shape. Ranging in size from 1-10 mm, these berries come in various shades of red and dark purple-red, adding a burst of color to any garden or landscape. The fruit's intense hues (specifically classified as red-dark purple red-053A) make it visually striking and irresistible to both humans and wildlife.
The Fireballs plant exhibits an erect growth type, reaching heights between 20-30 cm and 30-40 cm. This compact size makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, pots, or border plantings. Additionally, its winter hardness is good, suitable for USDA zones 5 and 6. This means it can endure colder temperatures, making it a robust and reliable plant for various climates.
June and July are the flowering months for the Vaccinium vitis-idaea Fireballs, when beautiful clusters of delicate blooms emerge. These flowers are a sight to behold, often adorning the plant with vibrant colors and enchanting fragrances. As pollination occurs, these stunning flowers transform into the small, delectable berries that the Fireballs are known for.
Gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers will appreciate the versatility and beauty of Vaccinium vitis-idaea Fireballs. It can be cultivated in various landscapes, including rockeries, borders, or even as groundcover. Its adaptability and stunning aesthetics make it an ideal choice for both ornamental and edible gardens.
In conclusion, the Vaccinium vitis-idaea Fireballs, or Bilberry, is a remarkable plant with an array of desirable qualities. Its dark green, elongated leaves with blunt tips provide an attractive backdrop to the plant's vivid, small berries, ranging in shades of red and dark purple-red. With an erect growth type and good winter hardness, it can thrive in different climates and garden settings. Whether used as a decorative feature or for its flavorful fruits, the Fireballs plant is a must-have for any gardening enthusiast looking to add vibrancy and variety to their space.
Market availability index by month:
| Jan. | Feb. | Mar. | Apr. | May | Jun. | Jul. | Aug. | Sep. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | - | 1 | - | - | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 1 | 1 |