Box Huckleberry
Vaccinium ovatum
Ericaceae · broadleaf evergreen shrub · native
Last updated
Evergreen huckleberry is a native broadleaf evergreen reaching 5 ft with multiple stems and erect form. It produces white flowers and purple berries. It is restricted to the western Pacific Coast and is the only evergreen huckleberry species.
Evergreen huckleberry is hardy in zones 7a-8b and prefers part shade with well-drained, acidic soil (pH 5.5-7.5). Growth is slow with moderate moisture needs; mature plants tolerate drought well. It is notably long-lived and useful for hedging, supporting a stable landscape structure for decades.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of April 3, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1070 to 1180.6 GDD₃₂. Box Huckleberry has reached 'first bloom' (1010 GDD₃₂) and is approaching 'bud break', predicted around Apr 14.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Apr 3, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 1,181 | 'First bloom' | 'Bud break' | 152 |
| Seattle / UW | 1,171 | 'First bloom' | 'Bud break' | 162 |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,111 | 'First bloom' | 'Bud break' | 222 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,106 | 'First bloom' | 'Bud break' | 227 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,101 | 'First bloom' | 'Bud break' | 232 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,075 | 'First bloom' | 'Bud break' | 258 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,070 | 'First bloom' | 'Bud break' | 263 |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'Flower buds visible' BBCH '51' | 680 | '' |
| ● 'First bloom' BBCH '61' NOW | 1010 | '' |
| ○ 'Bud break' BBCH '07' NEXT | 1333 | '' est. Apr 14 (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 3, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through Apr 19, 2026, then climate normals.