Deerberry
Vaccinium stamineum
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Mar 9, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Deerberry
Deerberry (Vaccinium stamineum) is a deciduous to semi-evergreen native blueberry relative found across the eastern United States, bearing drooping clusters of white bell-shaped flowers and small, greenish to bluish-purple berries. An understory shrub valued in native woodland and wildlife gardens. Starting at $19.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Plant Deerberry in full sun to partial shade; it naturally grows as an understory shrub but performs best in open sunny sites with at least 4–6 hours of direct sun in Northeast Florida landscapes.
Deerberry is drought-tolerant once established in Florida's sandy soils and requires minimal supplemental irrigation. Water regularly during the establishment period; thereafter rely on natural rainfall except during extended dry spells.
Requires acidic, sandy, well-drained soil with pH below 6.0; Florida's native sandy soils are well-suited. Mulch with pine straw to maintain soil acidity and moisture. Fertilize sparingly with an acid-forming fertilizer in spring if growth is poor.
Similar needs
Rusty Lyonia
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Sparkleberry
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Sumac
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Distylium
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, and zone 9a hardiness.
Christmas Jewel Holly
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Live Oak
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Deerberry a good plant for St. Augustine?
Deerberry is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-10 feet × 3-6 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.