Wild Weeds – Weed of the Month

Sparkleberry

Vaccinium arboreum

Sparkleberry is a flowering shrub/small tree found in hammocks and woodlands throughout the state of Florida. In the spring, it’s many small but fragrant flowers attract a variety of pollinators. It is the larval host for the Striped hairstreak and Henry’s elfin butterflies. Berries appear in late summer and may remain on the plant well into winter, they are enjoyed by many birds and other wildlife. They are also edible for humans but are generally reserved for pies and jellies due to their semi-bland and bitter flavor.

Florida Wildflower Foundation states “Historically, the plant has several cultural and medicinal uses, including tool handles from the wood, a remedy for dysentery from the berry juice, and a sore throat treatment made from an extract of the leaves.”

Learn more about the plant characteristics here: https://www.flawildflowers.org/flower-friday-vaccinium-arboreum/

Check out other Wild Weeds Here: http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/bakerco/tag/wild-weeds/ 

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