Japanese Blueberry Tree

Elaeocarpus decipiens (el-lee-oh-KAR-pus de-SIP-ee-enz)

Family: Elaeocarpaceae Non-native Canopy (>40 ft)

Japanese blueberry tree is a broad-leaved evergreen large shrub or tree in the Elaeocarpaceae family native to temperate East Asia. It is typically found in evergreen forests from 1,300 to nearly 8,000 feet in elevation through much of China and in Vietnam growing to 20 to 35 feet in height with an equal spread, but becoming larger with time (mature trees in nature are known to be 60 feet). The genus Elaeocarpus is derived from the Greek words ' elaia ' meaning olive and ' karpos ' meaning "fruit" knodding to the olive shaped blue fruits. The specific epithet decipiens is from the Greek ' decipio ' meaning "to take" or "catch" though the meaning behind this name is not clear. Plant in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil and water regularly until well established. It does best with fairly regular irrigation. It is cold hardy into USDA Zone 8 where winters do not go below 10 or 15 degrees F, such as the Pacific Northwest and Southern California. The leaves emerge with an attractive bronze coloring later turning dark shiny green. Attractive fragrant foliage lures nectaring pollinators like bees and butterflies. Japanese blueberry tree is adaptable to many climates and relatively pest free, though deer do like to browse the foliage. As a larger shrub it can be used for hedging and large scale privacy screen and windbreaks. It is attractive year-round, although some complain of the fruit and leaf litter dropped on walkways, patios, and other hardscape surfaces. Insect Pests, Disease, and Other Plant Problems: Argentine ants are an insect pest. Fruit and leaf litter can be a problem.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 55 attributes.