Azores Blueberry Blue Pearl Originally from the Azores, Vaccinium cylindraceum Blau Perle is a compact cultivar of the species, forming a medium-sized, rounded, semi-evergreen shrub. Small, bright green, pointed leaves, slightly toothed, on reddish-yellow stems persist through a mild winter. Attractive deep pink flowers opening to yellow appear in early and late spring, and are overlapped by elongated oval, blue-black berries that continue to appear for several months in summer. An attractive plant for a large pot, grow in an ericaceous compost mix. Hardy, except in extremely cold conditions. Needs acid soil. Prune fruited branches back after fruiting to promote new growth the following year. Site: ShelteredSoil: Well-drained, acid soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadePick: in autumn when fully ripeKeep: Will keep if driedHardiness: HardyPollination: Self-fertileUses: For eating fresh and for jams and preservesHeight: 3ft (1m) Spread: 2ft (0.6m)