Sparkleberry is a wonderful addition to any southern garden. In spring it is covered in fragrant, delicate, bell-shaped flowers, which give way to shiny black berries that wildlife love. It is well adapted to drought, heat, and humidity and supports a huge number of pollinators, making it a great choice for any garden looking for a large shrub or hedge.

Care requirements:

Light requirements: Full sun-part shade

Water requirements: Medium

Soil requirements: Dry-Medium

Bloom time: March-June

Bloom color: White

Height: 8-15 feet

Width: 4-10 feet

USDA Zone: 7-9

Larval host: Henry’s elfin, Brown elfin, striped hairstreak butterfly

Other notes: Sparkleberry usually stays as a large shrub but it can also sometimes reach heights of 30 feet. It can be pruned into a tree form. The leaves can be evergreen in the most southern parts of its range. It has good fall color, with foliage turning shades of red. While the fruits are edible, they are generally unpalatable to humans. It is drought tolerant and can also tolerate high humidity. Vaccinium are keystone species that support 217 butterfly and 14 bee species.

Do you have Sparkleberry growing in your garden? Do you have any tips or tricks for growing it you would like to share? Do you know of any Southeastern nurseries that regularly stock it? Let us know in the comments!