Our first of many plants of the month is a plant near and dear to our hearts. An Indiana native that benefits many with its tasty treats provided. Say hello to…

Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum)

Highbush blueberry is a crown-forming shrub that flowers in spring and summer and yearly fruiting to follow flowering. Bees love to pollinate these flowers once the plant blooms. This plant loves full sun to partial shade.

Identifying the Highbush Blueberry

Highbush Blueberry has a few key identifying traits such as:

• Yellow-green twigs
• Waxy leaves
• Red twigs in the winter
• Covered in wart-like dots (yuck)
• White or pink-ish flowers

Fun Facts about Highbush Blueberries

Highbush Blueberry has a tremendous amount of iron and many uses inside the home. The fruit from this bush can be used in various gourmet settings. 

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Blueberry Buckle Coffee Cake

Cake:

• 2 cups -- all-purpose flower
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 cups fresh blueberries (thawed and drained)

Heat oven to 375F. Grease 9x9x2 square pan or round pan 9x1 ½. Blend flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, shortening, milk, and egg; beat 30 seconds. Carefully stir in blueberries. Spread batter in pan; sprinkle with crumb topping. Bake 45-50minutes or until wooden toothpick comes out clean. Drizzle with glaze. Serve warm.

Crumb Topping:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter, softened

Mix all ingredients until crumbly.

Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 to 2 tsp hot water
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients until drizzly consistency.

Want Blueberries in your garden?

Reach out to Green Light Lawn Care today to see if the Highbush Blueberry is a good fit for you.