Vaccinium membranaceum (Mountain Huckleberry)

Plant Description: One of the many PNW native huckleberry species, this shub has rounded, toothed leaves. Like other huckleberry species, flowers in Spring through early summer with light, creamy pink bell shaped flowers followed by blue/black/purple berries that ripen in the summer. 

Huckleberries are in the same genus as blueberries and are some of the most favored foraged edibles, high in antioxidants and vitamin c. They can be eaten fresh, cooked, or dried. Great in tea, pancakes, syrup, or by the handful. *NEVER CONSUME PLANTS WITHOUT PROPER ID*

• Height: 1-4 ft
• Width: 2-5 ft
• Watering needs: consistent moisture
• Sun needs: part shade
• Soil needs: moist, well draining, loamy
• Bloom Time: Spring
• Fruit: Summer
• Portland Plant List (Backyard Habitat Certification): No

Landscape Use and Ecological Function: Mountain Huckleberry, sometimes also called Thin-Leaf Huckleberry, grows in semi-alpine environments in dappled shade, making it most ideal for woodland, open woodland, and forest edge gardens. In its native habitat, Mountain Huckleberry is beloved by black and grizzly bears who will eat the entire plant, enjoyed by deer and elk who eat stalks and berries, birds and small mammals who love the berries, and pollinated by native bees. This plant grows best in locations where it receives regular moisture and isn't too competitive for space, pair with Beargrass.