Yes, Bilberries Do Grow in the US, But Not Where You Think
While the term "bilberry" is most often associated with Europe, the species Vaccinium myrtillus and several closely related bilberry species are indeed native to North America. However, unlike the ubiquitous cultivated blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) found in grocery stores, American bilberries are primarily wild, low-growing shrubs found in specific ecological niches. Understanding their native habitat and botanical distinctions is key to finding and appreciating these unique berries in the US.
Where to Find Bilberries in North America
Bilberries are not a roadside crop; they require specific, often acidic, soil conditions and cooler climates to thrive.
- Mountainous Regions: The common bilberry (V. myrtillus) is found in the western United States, including states like Montana, Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah, often in moist coniferous forests at montane to lower subalpine elevations.
- Western US: Another species, the Cascade bilberry (Vaccinium deliciosum), is found in the Pacific Northwest.
- Great Lakes Region: The Dwarf bilberry (Vaccinium cespitosum) can be found in areas like the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan and in Wisconsin.
- Arctic and Subarctic Areas: Northern bilberry (Vaccinium uliginosum) is a native species that grows in the colder, boggy regions of North America.
The Key Differences Between Bilberries and American Blueberries
Despite their shared genus (Vaccinium), bilberries and American blueberries are distinct in several important ways, from their physical appearance to their growth habits.
| Feature | Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) | American Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) |
|---|---|---|
| Flesh Color | Dark purple or reddish flesh, stains hands and teeth | Pale green or whitish flesh |
| Growth Habit | Grows singly or in pairs on low, wild-growing shrubs. | Grows in clusters on taller, more robust bushes. |
| Flavor | More tart, intense, and aromatic due to higher anthocyanin content. | Mild and sweet flavor. |
| Crown | Smooth, circular outline at the end opposite the stalk. | Has a rough, star-shaped crown left by persistent sepals. |
| Availability | Mostly foraged from the wild; not widely cultivated commercially. | Widely cultivated for commercial sale. |
Wild Foraging vs. Cultivation in the US
For most people, bilberries are not a fruit they can simply pick up at the local supermarket. The majority of bilberries in the US are wild-harvested rather than commercially grown. This is due to their specific habitat requirements and growth patterns. While home gardeners can attempt bilberry cultivation, it requires careful attention to create the ideal acidic soil and cool climate conditions they need. Success often depends on mimicking their natural, wild environment. Some nurseries offer cultivated bilberry seedlings, such as Vaccinium ulginosum, for home growers in suitable USDA hardiness zones.
A Note on Nomenclature
It is important to remember that bilberries, huckleberries, and certain wild blueberries are all closely related and often share common names, leading to confusion. For example, the huckleberry is also a member of the Vaccinium genus, and species like the black huckleberry (V. membranaceum) are sometimes referred to as mountain bilberry. For the sake of accuracy, it is always best to refer to the specific scientific name of the plant.
Conclusion
So, while a trip to your local grocery store may only yield cultivated American blueberries, the answer to "Do bilberries grow in the US?" is a definitive yes. These wild, nutrient-dense cousins of the blueberry thrive in the cooler, forested, and mountainous regions of the country, offering a flavorful and fascinating wild foraging experience for those who know where to look. Their distinct color, flavor, and high antioxidant content set them apart from their more common cultivated relatives. For more information on the botanical differences between these berries, you can consult resources like the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database on Vaccinium myrtillus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do bilberries grow wild in the US? Yes, bilberries and several closely related native species grow wild in specific regions of the US, particularly in cooler, acidic soil environments found in mountainous and northern areas.
Where can I find bilberries in the US? Look for bilberries in high-elevation coniferous forests and bogs in western states like Montana, New Mexico, and Utah, as well as northern states in the Great Lakes region.
Are bilberries the same as American blueberries? No, bilberries and American blueberries are distinct species within the same genus. Bilberries are smaller, have a darker pulp, and grow wild, while American blueberries are larger, have a pale flesh, and are primarily cultivated.
Can you grow bilberries in a backyard garden in the US? Yes, it is possible to cultivate bilberries in a home garden, especially within USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 8. They require acidic, well-draining soil and can be grown in containers to ensure the proper soil pH.
What do bilberries look like? Bilberries are small, dark blue to nearly black berries with a purple-staining flesh. They grow singly or in pairs on low, wild-growing shrubs, unlike the clustered growth of American blueberries.
Why are bilberries not sold widely in US stores? Most bilberries are wild-harvested and are not suited for large-scale commercial cultivation due to their slow growth, low yield per plant, and specific environmental needs.
Do American blueberries also have anthocyanins like bilberries? Yes, all species in the Vaccinium genus contain anthocyanins, but bilberries generally contain a higher concentration, which gives them a more intense flavor and deeper purple pulp.
