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Sparkleberry
Vaccinium arboreum
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| Sparkleberry is a small bushy tree, characterized by a short, crooked bole, contorted branches,
and a dense, round crown. Unlike other plants
of this family, though, the Sparkleberry tree can survive on limestone soils. |
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Leaves
Leaves are simple, alternate, and deciduous or
persistent for a year. The leaves are 1-3 inches long, about 1 inch wide, and are oval in
shape, with an acute or rounded apex. The leaf base is wedge-shaped. Leaf margins are
entire or have very small teeth. The leaf surfaces are dark green and glabrous above,
paler below, sometimes with 5 scattered hairs along the midrib and principal veins. Leaf
petioles very short or nearly sessile.
Flowers
The flowers are perfect with small, leaf-like bracts.
Fruit
Fruit is a 1/4 inch diameter, shiny,
blue/black, many-seeded berry. It is edible and resembles a blueberry in taste. The
seeds are tiny and kidney-shaped.
Twigs
The twigs are slender, brown to
reddish-brown, and sometimes angled. The pith is white and homogeneous.
Bark
The bark is dark brown, sometimes with a purplish
tinge. It is divided into long, thin, elongated, shreddy, interlacing ridges.
Propagation
Information not available.
Landscape usage
Sparkleberry in an understory species, sometimes even a large shrub which grows best on
semi-moist soils near streams and lakes.
Interesting Facts
A compound extracted from the root
bark has sometimes been used by Indians in the treatment of diarrhea. The bark from the
bole is suitable for tanning leather. The wood has been used for tobacco pipes,
woodenware, and novelties. |
Sparkleberry.
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Summary
Type: Shrub
Salt Tolerant: Low
Height: 15-25 ft
Spread: N/A
Growth Rate: Fast
Light: Full sun-Part shade
Water: Low
Hardiness: High
Native: Yes
Wildlife: Yes
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For more detailed information on this
plant go to:
Volusia Extension
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