Vaccinium Patriot - Blueberry

The Patriot Blueberry, Vaccinum (x) corymbosum Patriot, is a bushy, vigorous shrub with a compact and almost upright habit. It is hardy, has a regular and high yield, and is resistant to diseases like phytophthora. The flowering is early, occurring in early May. The fruiting, spread out, takes place between late June and late July, in clusters of dark blue blueberries, composed of very large, firm berries with a rustic and assertive taste. The plant requires the presence of a companion to fruit. It displays stunning foliage in the autumn, vibrant orange in colour. It is a shrub that prefers well-drained acidic soil, and thrives in dappled sunlight or partial shade.

Vaccinum (x) corymbosum 'Patriot' belongs to the Ericaceae family, like heathers and rhododendrons. It is a crossbreed between the European species Vaccinum myrtillus, which has tasty but small fruits, and the species Vaccinum corymbosum, which has a more significant development but less flavoursome fruits. 'Patriot' is a highly productive variety, forming a dense bush with a compact habit, reaching a height of 1.20 m (4ft) and spreading to 60 cm (24in). The leaves are deciduous, 2 to 3 cm (1in) long, lanceolate, elliptical, entire and toothed, medium green in colour, turning vibrant orange in autumn. The flowering occurs in early May, in the form of small white bell-shaped flowers with a hint of red on the edges, measuring 0.5 to 1 cm (0in) in length, gathered in pendant clusters measuring 2 to 5 cm (1 to 2in) in length, at the tips of the stems. This is followed by large blue berries covered in bloom, measuring 1 cm (0in) in diameter, which ripen from late June to late July. The harvest will be staggered according to the ripeness of the fruits. The blueberries are firm and sweet, with a pronounced, slightly resinous and aromatic flavour. The yield is excellent, around 6 kg per plant. Blueberries are low in calories but high in nutritional value: they are rich in vitamins A, B, and C, as well as calcium and iron. They contain pigments (anthocyanins) that improve night vision.

To fruit, the 'Patriot' Blueberry needs the presence of another shrub, either of the same variety or a different one. Plant 'Brigitta Blue' or 'Spartan' Blueberries near it to ensure a good harvest. You can combine the Patriot Blueberry with other acid-loving plants like rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas, and heathers in your ericaceous soil bed. Blueberries can be consumed freshly picked, in juice, jam, jelly, or in pastries (pies, sorbets).