Sparkleberry (Vaccinium arboreum), also known as farkleberry, is a Florida-native shrub or small tree in the Ericaceae family (the blueberry relatives). It is widespread throughout much of Florida, thriving in habitats such as hammocks, woodlands, sandhills, flatwoods, and scrubs—often as an understory plant beneath pines or oaks in sandy, well-drained, acidic soils. This adaptable species handles both moist and dry conditions, full sun to partial shade, and Florida's heat, humidity, drought, and occasional winds with ease.
Growing 10–30 feet tall (typically 6–25 feet in Florida landscapes), sparkleberry often develops an irregular, open crown with crooked or twisted branches and a short trunk. Its bark is distinctive: mottled grayish outer layers peel away to reveal reddish-brown inner bark, adding year-round visual appeal. 
 In fall, foliage can turn attractive pinkish or purplish hues, and leaves are semi-evergreen to deciduous depending on conditions.
In spring, sparkleberry produces abundant clusters of small, fragrant, bell-shaped (urn-like) white flowers. These delicate blooms attract native bees and other pollinators and serve as a larval host for butterflies like the striped hairstreak and Henry's elfin.
By late summer, the flowers give way to small, shiny berries that start green and ripen to purplish-black. The berries persist into winter, providing valuable food for birds and wildlife (and are edible for humans, though often bland or slightly bitter—best used in pies, jellies, or jams rather than fresh eating).

Native to Florida and most of the Southeastern U.S.
Natural range in FL includes most of the states minus southernmost counties
15-25' tall and 4-15' wide
Part sun
Prefers acidic sandy soils that are occasionally moist but is able to tolerate dry periods
Can be grown in zones 8A-9B
Size: 3 gal
 
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Plants are only shipped on Mondays and Tuesdays. This is to avoid plants sitting at a post office or warehouse over a weekend and reducing shipping stress on plants. Plants arrive healthier and quicker when you select faster shipping such as priority shipping. Plants ship from Florida. Keep that in mind when deciding to buy and selecting shipping options.
 
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