Vaccinium nummularia
Vaccinium nummulariafam. Ericaceae
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Pl. DBC3 — Vaccinium nummularia
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IOverview
Overview
Vaccinium nummularia, known as the small-leaved blueberry or tea-berry, is a deciduous shrub native to the mountainous regions of Assam, China South-Central, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal, and Tibet. This plant thrives in partial sun to shade, requiring moist conditions and well-drained soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. Growing to a height of about 0.3 meters, it is valued for its edible fruit, which can be used fresh or dried. Its small, rounded leaves and compact form make it an attractive ornamental plant for gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Vaccinium nummularia?
Vaccinium nummularia, known as the small-leaved blueberry or tea-berry, is a deciduous shrub native to the mountainous regions of Assam, China South-Central, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal, and Tibet.
What is Vaccinium nummularia used for?
Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Vaccinium nummularia
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Vaccinium species, including Vaccinium nummularia, have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for immune support. A decoction of the fruit may help bolster the body's defenses against common ailments.
The berries contain anthocyanins and flavonoids which exhibit antioxidant properties that can protect cells from oxidative stress and enhance immune function.
- Vaccinium nummularia, like other Vaccinium species, has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support digestion. A decoction of the fruit may help alleviate digestive discomfort.
The berries contain tannins and flavonoids which can have astringent properties that may aid in reducing inflammation and soothing the gastrointestinal tract.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Vaccinium nummularia support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Vaccinium nummularia thrives in partial sun to shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light or sandy with medium texture. It grows to a height of 0.3 meters and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. The fruit can be harvested for edibility.
Light
Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Vaccinium nummularia for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and light approach to growing Skip, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A small container or garden bed, seeds or young plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly in the prepared soil, spacing them about 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade to help the plant establish itself.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Provide light shade during hot afternoons.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough partial shade.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Vaccinium nummularia is edible and can be consumed fresh or used in various preparations. It is typically eaten raw but can also be dried for later use. Skip the invention of specific recipes; focus on these basic uses.
Other uses:Ground cover
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaIndiaMyanmarNepal
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Ericaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Ericaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
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