Vaccinium myrtillus

A blueberry relative, the bilberry, Vaccinium myrtillus, is commonly found growing on the heaths, moors and woodlands of northern Europe, and has naturalised in some parts of Britain. It forms a small, low-growing, spreading shrub, and thrives in acidic soils.

In spring, Vaccinium myrtillus is smothered in small, white tubular flowers, which are followed in summer by blue-black berries, similar to blueberries only smaller. A compact plant with small green leaves, the bilberry is perfect for growing in small gardens, and is well suited to growing in pots of ericaceous compost.