All flowers
Bilberry Flower Wikimedia Commons
Ericaceae

Bilberry Flower

Vaccinium myrtillus

Quiet sustenance.

Family
Ericaceae
Genus
Vaccinium
Native to
Europe, Northern Asia
Bloom season
Spring
Type
deciduous shrub
Height
0.5-2 ft
Sunlight
part shade
Soil
Acidic, moist, well-drained soil
Water
moderate
Hardiness
3-8
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Bilberry fruits were used by RAF pilots in World War II, who believed they improved night vision.
  • The tiny urn-shaped flowers are pollinated mainly by bumblebees that vibrate at just the right frequency.
  • Unlike blueberries, bilberries have deep red flesh inside, staining fingers and teeth dark purple.
  • Bilberry plants can live for over 30 years in the wild moors and forests of Europe.
  • The berries contain high levels of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants studied for eye health benefits.

Color meanings

0

resourcefulness

1

simplicity

Uses

  • edible fruit
  • traditional medicine
  • natural dye
  • wildlife food