Vaccinium corymbosum Chandler- American Blueberry

The 'Chandler' Blueberry, also known as Vaccinium corymbosum 'Chandler', is an American variety renowned for its very large fruits. This vigorous and bushy bush offers a harvest spread over 6 weeks, in July-August, thanks to its beautiful clusters of large dark blue blueberries with a balanced tangy taste. Flowering takes place in May. In autumn, the dark green foliage takes on magnificent shades of bright yellow-orange. It is a bush that prefers well-drained acid soil and thrives in dappled sunlight or partial shade.

Vaccinium corymbosum 'Chandler' belongs to the Ericaceae family, like heathers and rhododendrons. It comes from the species Vaccinium corymbosum, native to New England in the United States, with a larger growth but less flavorful fruits than the European species Vaccinium myrtillus. The cultivar 'Chandler' was developed in the United States in 1995. It is a self-fertile variety, forming a dense bush reaching about 1.50m (5ft) in height and 80cm (32in) in width at maturity. The deciduous leaves are 2 to 3cm (1in) long, lanceolate, elliptical, entire and toothed, medium green in colour, turning bright orange in autumn. Flowering occurs in May, in the form of small white bell-shaped flowers with reddish edges, measuring 0.5 to 1cm in length, grouped in pendulous clusters measuring 2 to 5cm (1 to 2in) in length, at the tips of the stems. This is followed by large blue berries covered in bloom, which ripen in July-August. Harvesting will be staggered depending on the ripeness of the fruits. The blueberries are firm and sweet, with a pronounced, slightly resinous and aromatic flavour. The yield is excellent. Blueberries are low-calorie fruits but have high nutritional value: they are rich in vitamins A, B, and C, as well as calcium and iron. They contain pigments (anthocyanins) that improve night vision.

To ensure good pollination and fruiting, it is recommended to plant at least 2 to 3 Blueberry plants of the same variety or different varieties (including self-fertile varieties such as 'Chandler'). Plant Blueberry plants such as 'Spartan' nearby to ensure a good harvest. In the garden, Blueberries will integrate perfectly into acid soil beds, along with rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas, heathers, etc. Blueberries can be consumed freshly picked, in juice, jam, jelly, or in pastries (pies, sorbets).