Vaccinium myrtillus

Species of plant

Vaccinium myrtillus, commonly known as the bilberry, is a species of shrub in the family Ericaceae, native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is closely related to the blueberry and is known for its edible fruit.

Description

Vaccinium myrtillus is a low-growing shrub, typically reaching heights of 10 to 60 cm. The plant has small, ovate leaves that are finely serrated and turn red in autumn. The flowers are bell-shaped, pale pink, and appear in spring. The fruit is a small, dark blue berry, which is edible and often used in culinary applications.

Distribution and habitat

Vaccinium myrtillus is found throughout Europe, from the British Isles to Scandinavia, and extends into Asia. It thrives in acidic, nutrient-poor soils and is commonly found in heathlands, moorlands, and coniferous forests. The plant prefers cool, temperate climates and is often found at higher altitudes.

Ecology

The bilberry is an important food source for various wildlife, including birds and mammals. It is also a host plant for several species of Lepidoptera, such as the small pearl-bordered fritillary and the northern brown argus.

Uses

Bilberries are harvested for their fruit, which is rich in anthocyanins and vitamin C. They are used in jams, pies, and desserts, and are also consumed fresh. In traditional medicine, bilberries have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea and inflammation.

Gallery

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  Comparison of Vaccinium myrtillus and Vaccinium uliginosum
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  Vaccinium myrtillus in the Spandauer Forst
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  Bilberry plant in the wild
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  Bilberry in the Apennine Mountains
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  Freshly picked bilberries
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  Bilberries ready for consumption

Related pages

• Blueberry
• Cranberry
• Ericaceae

References

• Huxley, A., ed. (1992). New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. Macmillan.
• Flora Europaea: Vaccinium myrtillus
• USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program. Germplasm Resources Information Network - (GRIN) [Online Database].

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  Vaccinium myrtillus
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  Comparison of Vaccinium myrtillus and Vaccinium uliginosum
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  Vaccinium myrtillus in the Spandauer Forst
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  Vaccinium myrtillus
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  Vaccinium myrtillus
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  Hands scooping up fresh bilberries
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  Vaccinium myrtillus