Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Vaccinium nummularia
Himalayan Whortleberry
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Height
- 12 in to 24 in
- Width
- 24 in to 36 in
- Flower color
- Tiny urn shaped white to pink flowers borne singly or in small clusters
- Foliage color
- Small rounded deep green leaves with a smooth surface and dense compact habit
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun in cooler climates
- Water
- Moderate to high; prefers consistently moist acidic soil
- Maintenance
- Low; prune lightly after fruiting to shape and remove weak or crowded growth
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 7 to 9
- Wildlife
- Pollinators attracted to nectar rich flowers and birds attracted to berries
About this plant
Vaccinium nummularia produces small, urn-shaped pink to reddish flowers in spring, nestled closely along the stems and followed by dark, berry-like fruit. Rounded, coin-shaped leaves are small, glossy, and deep green, forming a dense, trailing mat that hugs the ground and creates a finely textured surface. The foliage remains neat and closely spaced, with flowers appearing just above the leaves and blending into the overall form.
Native to the Himalayan region, this species reflects adaptation to cool, mountainous environments and low-growing habitats. It is well suited to rock gardens, alpine plantings, and along paths, where its compact growth and evergreen foliage provide structure and seasonal interest.
Companion plants
Mahonias · Astilbe · Heucheras · Maidenhair fern · Corydalis · Lily-of-the-valley
Design tip
Make the most of Himalayan Huckleberry’s changing foliage by keeping it within easy view throughout the year. Reddish new growth shifts to polished deep green, while blue-black berries add another seasonal layer without disrupting the shrub’s restrained evergreen character.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
