Box Huckleberry
Vaccinium ovatum
Ericaceae · broadleaf evergreen shrub · native
Last updated
This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.
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 23, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1434.4 to 1592.7 GDD₃₂. Box Huckleberry has passed 'bud break' (1333 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 | 'Bud break' | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 1,554 | 'Bud break' | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,537 | 'Bud break' | — | — |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,505 | 'Bud break' | — | — |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,483 | 'Bud break' | — | — |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,472 | 'Bud break' | — | — |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,434 | 'Bud break' | — | — |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'Flower buds visible' BBCH '51' | 680 | '' |
| 'Bloom' BBCH '61-65' | 1010 | '' |
| ● 'Bud break' BBCH '07' NOW | 1333 | '' |
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 9, 2026, then climate normals.