Blueberries

Blueberries belong to the genus Vaccinium, related to the bilberry, cranberry, huckleberry, and whortleberry. Blueberries are round, smooth-skinned, dark blue, sweet and juicy berries with a dusty white bloom, are native to North America and have been cultivated commercially since the early 1900's. The cultivated blueberries are up to four times as large as the wild blueberries and are available from late May to late September.

Wild blueberries grow on shrubs like bushes in bunches of 3 to 4 berries. They are found throughout Canada and the United States, wherever there is acidic soil and adequate moisture. Cultivated blueberries are grown along the eastern seaboard, westward to Michigan. They are also cultivated in British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest.

Most of the blueberries sold in grocery stores are cultivated. When choosing blueberries, look for firm, plump, fragrant, dark blue berries with a dusty white bloom. The white bloom is the blueberry's natural protection against the sun and is a sign of freshness. Always check the underside of the container for any wet spots or staining. Discard any soft, moldy, or crushed berries.