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Herbs - Australia

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)

21 years ago

Hi

I was wandering if anyone has tried to grow bilberry in Queensland or Asutralia for that matter and where one would be able to obtain any plants.

Please pass on to the right forum if incorrectly addressed as I am new to the forums.

Thank you

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Comment (1)

Daisyduckworth
21 years ago
Bilberry is also known as Black whortleberry, Bleaberry, Blueberry, Burren myrtle, Dyeberry, Huckleberry, Hurtleberry, Trackleberry, Whinberry, Whortleberry, Wineberry, and Whorts. You could search for info under any of those names, or of course the botanical name.

Many people do not distinguish between bilberry and blueberry. The article at the link below describes the minor differences. Medicinally, they are used in the same ways.

I have a friend near Brisbane who grows raspberries very successfully. As far as I know, they have the same requirements as blueberries etc. However, I've always thought that berries as a rule need quite low temps to do well. Blueberries and bilberries, for instance, grow wild in northern climes of North America, and in alpine or subalpine areas.

Unless someone else can come up with more information here, I suggest you go to the Gardening Australia website, which is produced from Tasmania. I know they have done segments on their TV program about blueberries (which they grow at the Hobart Botanical Gardens), and probably have a factsheet you could get from them. You can also email them direct for information, or post your question in their Chatroom.

As for availability, try contacting Eden Seeds.

Sorry, that's the best I can come up with.

Here is a link that might be useful: bilberry
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