Habitat:
Vaccinium delavayi is native to the eastern Himalayas and temperate regions of southwestern China, particularly in Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet. It grows in subalpine thickets, forest margins, and open rocky slopes at elevations ranging from 2500 to 4200 metres. This species is commonly found in cool, misty environments, often in association with rhododendrons and other ericaceous shrubs. It thrives in acidic, humus-rich soils and endures a wide temperature range due to the alpine nature of its habitat.
Description:
Vaccinium delavayi is an evergreen shrub ranging from 0.3 to 2 metres in height, often with a dense, bushy growth habit. The leaves are leathery, elliptic to ovate, measuring 1–4 cm long and 0.5–2 cm wide, with a glossy dark green upper surface and paler underside, finely serrulate margins, and a short petiole. New growth is often tinged red. The flowers are small, urn-shaped, and typically pale pink to reddish in colour, around 4–6 mm in length, borne in short axillary racemes. Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer, followed by the development of small, globose berries, usually blue-black when mature and around 5–7 mm in diameter. It is similar in form to Vaccinium nummularia but differs in its larger leaves and wider altitudinal range.
Cultivation:
Vaccinium delavayi prefers cool to temperate climates with bright, filtered light. It grows well with daytime temperatures of 16°C to 22°C and nighttime temperatures between 5°C and 12°C. It requires acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5), rich in organic matter, and must be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water with rainwater or distilled water if tap water is too alkaline. High humidity (above 60%) is beneficial, especially during active growth. Plant in a well-drained mix suitable for ericaceous plants, such as a blend of peat, pine bark, and perlite. Fertilise sparingly with an acid-loving plant fertiliser during spring and summer.
Specifications:
Plant Size: Rooted and growing cuttings of a miniature cloud forest form from Yunnan.
Plant Family: Ericaceae
Plant Passport: Vaccinium delavayi B 140084 C 13915 D GB
