Highbush Blueberry
Vaccinium corymbosum
Ericaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · native
Last updated
This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.
Highbush blueberry is a broadleaf shrub reaching 6-12 ft with multiple stems and erect form. It produces white or pinkish urn-shaped flowers in May and edible blue fruit. Native range spans Maine to Minnesota south to Florida.
Highbush blueberry is hardy in zones 3a-8b and prefers part shade with wet-tolerant, acidic soil (pH 4.7-7.5). Growth is moderate with medium maintenance; it requires moderate moisture and tolerates wet soil and anaerobic conditions. Over 43 diseases are documented, necessitating careful monitoring.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of April 23, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1434.4 to 1592.7 GDD₃₂. Highbush Blueberry has reached 'flower buds visible' (1272 GDD₃₂) and is approaching 'leaf emergence', predicted around Apr 25.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Apr 23, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 1,593 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 1,554 | 'Leaf emergence' | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,537 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'Leaf emergence' | 1 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,505 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'Leaf emergence' | 34 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,483 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'Leaf emergence' | 55 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,472 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'Leaf emergence' | 66 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,434 | 'Flower buds visible' | 'Leaf emergence' | 104 |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'Bud break' BBCH '07' | 1068 | '' |
| ● 'Flower buds visible' BBCH '51' NOW | 1272 | '' |
| ○ 'Leaf emergence' BBCH '11' NEXT | 1538 | '' est. Apr 25 (forecast) |
GDD = Growing Degree Days (base 32°F, Jan 1 start). Why base 32? GDD₃₂ thresholds from USA National Phenology Network citizen science observations (WA+OR). Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Apr 23, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through May 10, 2026, then climate normals.