Vaccinium parvifolium
IOverview
Overview
Vaccinium parvifolium, known as the dwarf bilberry or small-leaved blueberry, is a perennial shrub native to coastal regions from Alaska to California and into parts of British Columbia and Washington. This plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH between 5 and 7.5, often found in light (sandy) to medium soil types. It prefers partial sun to full sun exposure and can grow up to 1.8 meters tall with a spread of about 1 meter. The fruit is edible, making it a valuable resource for foragers and gardeners alike. One distinctive feature is its small, dark green leaves, which contrast nicely with the plant's blue berries.
What is Vaccinium parvifolium?
Vaccinium parvifolium, known as the dwarf bilberry or small-leaved blueberry, is a perennial shrub native to coastal regions from Alaska to California and into parts of British Columbia and Washington. This plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH between 5 and 7.
What is Vaccinium parvifolium used for?
Traditionally used for digestion, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context- Vaccinium parvifolium has been traditionally used in Native American medicine to aid digestion. Its astringent properties may help soothe the digestive tract and alleviate minor gastrointestinal discomfort.
The berries contain tannins which have astringent effects that can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the gut lining, though specific mechanisms are not fully understood.
▲ ModerateDigestion → - Vaccinium parvifolium, like other Vaccinium species, has been traditionally used in Native American medicine to support immune health. Its antioxidant properties may help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
The berries contain anthocyanins which have potent antioxidant activity that can neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage. However, the specific mechanism for immune modulation is not fully characterized.
▲ ModerateImmune support →
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftVCultivation
Cultivation
How to grow Vaccinium parvifolium for the first time
Start with a simple, low-maintenance shrub that thrives in partial sun and moist soil.
- 1
What you'll need
Vaccinium parvifolium plants or seeds.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining, slightly acidic (pH 5-7.5), and rich in organic matter.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery or sow seeds directly into the ground after preparing the soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun with some shade during hot afternoons. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth starts, and harvest fruit when ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using incorrect soil pH, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough shade during hot weather.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedIXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
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