About 150 species of deciduous or evergreen shrubs, as well as a few small trees and vines. Distributed through the north temperate zone, but concentrated in North America and eastern Asia. Often cultivated for their edible fruit, and as ornamentals.
All species require an acidic, and preferably light, soil.
They tend to be fairly tolerant of shade, but will be most productive of fruit where plenty of sunlight is available. Vaccinium species are shallow rooted, and dislike any disturbance of the soil in their rooting area. They appreciate a permanent mulch. Fruit begins ripening here in early July. The fruit of this species is generally considered the best of the low-bush blueberries.