Huckleberry Identification and Growing in Georgia

What Is a Huckleberry?

"Huckleberry" is a common name applied to several different plants. The true huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata) grows primarily in the Northeast and Canada. However, many plants in the blueberry genus (Vaccinium)—including lingonberry, sparkleberry, farkleberry, and partridgeberry—are locally called huckleberries, especially in the Appalachian region.

Growing Huckleberries in Georgia

True huckleberries (Gaylussacia) are not well-suited to Georgia's climate. However, several native Vaccinium species that bear the name "huckleberry" thrive in the North Georgia mountains. These include Vaccinium arboreum (sparkleberry) and Vaccinium stamineum (deerberry). They prefer acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Finding Your Mother's Huckleberry

If your mother made jam from berries gathered in East Tennessee or North Georgia, she likely used a native Vaccinium species. These wild berries have a distinct, intense flavor quite different from cultivated blueberries. For home cultivation, consider named varieties of native huckleberries available from specialty nurseries, or stick with reliable rabbiteye blueberries (Vaccinium virgatum) which are better adapted to Georgia gardens.