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Blueberry, Florida Evergreen 'Rosa's Blush'

Vaccinium darrowii "Rosa's Blush"

$23.00 Sold out

1 Gallon | Hardiness Zones 7-9

This small leaf evergreen blueberry is native to sandy pinelands in the South. Small bell-shaped white flowers are followed by small but edible blueberries. The leaves are normally green or blue-green. This variety has blue-green leaves but the new growth is very showy with lots of pink tints. This character seems to manifest itself mostly in material from Highlands County, Florida and is noted in several clones being worked with at NC State University blueberry breeding program. 'Rosa's Blush' is a selection made by our friend Steve Riefler who is a noted Florida plant hunter and plant breeder. Steve has found and introduced a number of now popular native species and selections. Steve named this now popular selection for the late Rosa Gonzales, a nursery colleague. Plant this charming plant in sandy acid soil that is well-drained and select a sunny or semi-shady site.

Photos courtesy of Mike Gercens III and NetPlant. 

Plant Specs
  • Zones: 7 to 9
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Well-drained and Acid
  • Growth Rate: Moderate

Pickup currently unavailable at Aiken Nursery

Hardiness Zones: 7 - 9

Soil: Well-drained and Acid

Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade

Seasonal Behavior: Evergreen

Growth Rate: Moderate

Height at Maturity: 2 - 3 feet

Spread at Maturity: 2 - 3 feet

Flower Structure: Produces small, bell-shaped, white to pale pink flowers in spring.

Blooming Season: Blooms in early to mid-spring.

Foliage: Evergreen foliage with a distinctive pinkish blush, especially in cooler weather.

Fruit Details:

Appearance: The fruit of Vaccinium darrowii 'Rosa's Blush' is a small, round blueberry, typical of other Vaccinium species. The berries are initially green, turning to a deep blue or bluish-black color as they ripen.

Size: The berries are typically small to medium in size, around 0.25 to 0.5 inches (6-12 mm) in diameter, which is slightly smaller than those of some other blueberry cultivars.

Flavor: The berries are sweet and slightly tart, offering a flavor profile similar to other blueberries but with a distinctive taste that makes them excellent for fresh eating, baking, or preserves.

Ripening Season: The fruit ripens in late spring to early summer, depending on the climate. In warmer regions, the berries may ripen earlier in the season.

Edibility: The fruit is fully edible and can be consumed fresh, frozen, or used in a variety of culinary applications, including pies, jams, and smoothies. The berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber, making them a healthy addition to any diet.

Wildlife Attraction: In addition to being enjoyed by humans, the berries are also attractive to birds and other wildlife, which may feed on the ripe fruit. This makes Vaccinium darrowii 'Rosa's Blush' a great plant for gardeners looking to attract wildlife to their gardens.

Nutritional Value: Like other blueberries, the fruit is likely to be high in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are responsible for the berry's deep blue color. These compounds are known for their health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy properties.

Read full care instruction manual here.

Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade. For optimal growth and fruit production, provide at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade is tolerated but may result in fewer flowers and berries.

Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-draining, acidic soil. Ideal pH levels range from 4.0 to 5.5. Incorporate organic matter such as peat moss, pine bark, or compost to improve soil structure and maintain acidity. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils unless adequately amended to ensure good drainage.

Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during the growing and fruiting seasons. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Deep, infrequent watering is preferable to shallow, frequent watering. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and prevent root competition from weeds.

Temperature and Humidity: Hardy in USDA zones 7-9. Prefers moderate temperatures and can tolerate high humidity. 'Rosa’s Blush' is well-suited to southern gardens due to its heat tolerance. Protect the plant from severe frost, as it can damage blooms and young growth.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring as new growth begins. An additional light application after fruit set can support continued growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient imbalances and affect fruit quality.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and to maintain an open structure for better air circulation and light penetration. Light pruning helps maintain a compact shape and encourages vigorous new growth, which can improve fruit yield.

Pests and Problems: Generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract pests such as aphids, scale insects, and blueberry maggots. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and root rot. If pests are detected, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular inspections help catch and manage issues early.

Grown in Aiken, S.C.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.