Oval-leaf Blueberry
Vaccinium ovalifolium
Ericaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · native
Last updated
This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.
Oval-leaf blueberry is a native deciduous shrub reaching 8 ft with multiple stems and erect form. It produces purple flowers and blue edible fruit. Distribution spans the Pacific Coast from British Columbia south to California.
Oval-leaf blueberry is hardy in zones 3b-8b and grows in sun to part shade with adaptable, acidic soil (pH 4.5-7.5) and moderate moisture. Growth is moderate with medium drought tolerance. It is hardy to very cold winters and suits cool-climate gardens.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of April 23, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1434.4 to 1592.7 GDD₃₂. Oval-leaf Blueberry has passed 'first bloom' (935 GDD₃₂).
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 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 1,554 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,537 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,505 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,483 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,472 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,434 | 'First bloom' | — | — |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'Bud break' BBCH '07' | 607 | '' |
| 'Leaf emergence' BBCH '11' | 780 | '' |
| ● 'First bloom' BBCH '61' NOW | 935 | '' |
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.