Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) EMIL

Northern Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) 'Emil'

A unique variety with the taste and appearance of wild forest blueberries.

'Emil' is an exceptional cultivar that will primarily appeal to lovers of traditional wild blueberries. Unlike most popular Canadian varieties, its fruits are smaller and very dark, and with their intense aroma and subtle acidity, they faithfully mimic wild-growing forest berries. It is a hardy, compactly growing bush that, in addition to a tasty harvest, offers high ornamental value thanks to its magnificent autumn foliage color.

Key Highlights:

• Wild blueberry flavor: Intense aroma and typical dark appearance.
• Compact habit: The bush does not spread too wide, maintaining a neat shape.
• Ornamental value: Beautiful bell-shaped flowers and vibrant autumn foliage.
• High resilience: A robust plant suitable for various conditions.
• Gradual ripening of fruits for an extended harvest period.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Sweden (bred for Nordic climates).

Variety Characteristics

Bush

• Growth: Hardy and vital, reaching a height of about 150 cm.
• Habit: Compact, the crown does not spread excessively.
• Flowering: First half of May. Flowers are small, white, bell-shaped with a delicate red edge.
• Leaves: Oblong (approx. 3 cm), turning yellow to orange in autumn.

Fruit

• Size and Color: Smaller, very dark berries (similar to wild blueberries).
• Flavor: Aromatic, sweet with a mild tang, the closest flavor match to wild forest berries.
• Productivity: Usually begins bearing fruit in the second year after planting.
• Usage: Fresh consumption, processing, freezing.

Resistance and Requirements

• Soil: Requires acidic pH and well-drained soil. Do not use fertilizers containing calcium.
• Frost: High resistance, suitable even for colder regions.

Cultivation Recommendations

• Pollination: Planting near another blueberry variety is recommended to multiply the yield.
• Pruning: Does not require major pruning. Remove only dry, diseased, or overly crowded branches.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: July to August. Fruits ripen gradually.