Japanese Blueberry Tree

(Elaeocarpus decipiens)

Japanese Blueberry Tree (Elaeocarpus decipiens)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 60" - 123"
High Temp. 80°F - 92°F
Low Temp. 40°F - 57°F

Summary

Elaeocarpus decipiens, commonly known as Japanese Blueberry Tree, is an evergreen tree native to East Asia, particularly found in open woodlands and forest edges. It typically grows to a height of 30-40 feet (9-12 meters) and a width of 15-30 feet (5-9 meters), with a dense, rounded to conical form. The tree is notable for its glossy, dark green leaves that turn a striking red or purple in colder months before they drop, and for its small, inconspicuous cream, pink, and white flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are followed by olive-like fruits that mature to a dark, bluish-black color.

The Japanese Blueberry Tree is valued for its year-round foliage interest, particularly its colorful leaf change in the fall and winter. It is used in urban landscapes, as a specimen tree, or for screening purposes due to its dense growth habit. It adapts well to a range of soil types, provided they have medium drainage, and it can tolerate both full sun and part shade. Gardeners should be aware that the fruit can create a mess when it drops, and the tree may suffer from leaf spot or rust diseases under certain conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-40 feet
  • Width: 15-30 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fragrant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands and forest edges in East Asia

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Elaeocarpus decipiens, Elaeocarpus hayatae, Elaeocarpus sphaericus var. hayatae, Elaeocarpus angustifolius var. hayatae, Elaeocarpus sylvestris subsp. sylvestris, Elaeocarpus sylvestris var. hayatae

GBIF Accepted Name: Elaeocarpus decipiens Hemsl.