Fraughan bush (wild blueberry)
€9.95
Fraughan (Vaccinium myrtillus), also known as the Irish Wild Blueberry or Bilberry, is a small native deciduous shrub that typically grows 20–50 cm tall, forming low spreading patches in heathlands and upland landscapes. In spring it produces delicate greenish-pink bell-shaped flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. These are followed in summer by small, dark blue berries with deep purple flesh, prized for their rich flavour and high antioxidant content.
The berries have long been traditionally foraged across Ireland and are valued for their sweet, slightly tart taste. Fraughan plants form dense groundcover over time and are well suited to naturalistic plantings, woodland edges, and food forest understories where they can slowly establish and produce seasonal harvests.
Quantity
Only 2 left in stock
Growing Instructions
Plant in full sun or partial shade in acidic, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter such as leaf mould or composted pine needles. Fraughan naturally prefers poor, acidic soils similar to those found in heathlands and woodland margins. Water regularly during the establishment phase, particularly in dry periods.
Mulch annually with leaf mould, pine needles, or other acidic organic materials to maintain soil acidity and support healthy growth. Avoid lime or alkaline soil amendments, as these can inhibit growth.
Fraughan thrives in Ireland’s cool temperate climate and is well adapted to damp, acidic conditions. Once established it requires little maintenance and will slowly spread to form low productive patches. It is an excellent addition to food forests, wildlife gardens, and naturalistic plantings, providing both edible berries and valuable habitat for pollinators and birds.
