European Blueberry (Bilberry) Vaccinium myrtillus Heirloom Seeds

Looking for bilberry (European blueberry) seeds for sale? You've found them. Vaccinium myrtillus is a cold-hardy, low bush berry prized for its rich, dark flesh and intense flavor. Ideal for cool-climate gardens and woodland edges, bilberry thrives in acidic soil and partial shade—perfect for gardeners seeking a distinctive, long-lived fruiting shrub.

Why Choose Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)?

• 🌿 True European blueberry – small, aromatic berries with dark purple flesh
• ❄️ Cold-hardy low bush – suited to cool climates (USDA Zones 3–8)
• 🌤️ Thrives in partial shade – great for woodland or dappled-light gardens
• 🧪 Loves acidic soil – best at pH 4.5–5.5
• 📦 Ships fast from the USA – sealed 400+ seed pack; heirloom, open-pollinated, non-GMO

What’s in the Pack?

Each sealed packet contains European bilberry seeds. This quantity is ideal for starting multiple trays, selecting the strongest seedlings, and establishing a small patch for future harvests.

Planting Instructions

• Best Time to Sow: Late winter to early spring after cold stratification; or sow outdoors in fall for natural stratification.
• Cold Stratification: 8–12 weeks at 34–40°F (1–4°C) in moist medium (refrigerator method).
• Soil: Acidic, well-drained mix (peat/coir + perlite); target pH 4.5–5.5.
• Light: Partial shade to dappled sun (tolerates full sun in cool regions).
• Sowing Depth: Surface-sow or cover very lightly; bilberry seed benefits from light exposure.
• Watering: Keep evenly moist (never waterlogged); gentle bottom-watering is ideal.
• Germination Window: Typically 2–8 weeks after stratification at 65–72°F (18–22°C).
• Transplanting: Pot up once seedlings have 2–3 true leaves into acidic, ericaceous mix.
• Growing Zone: USDA Zones 3–8 (cool-climate, cold-tolerant low bush).

FAQs

Is bilberry the same as blueberry?

They’re close relatives, but not the same. Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a wild-type European species with smaller berries and dark purple flesh; American blueberries are typically larger and pale inside.

Do these seeds need cold stratification?

Yes. For reliable germination, provide 8–12 weeks of cold, moist stratification (34–40°F/1–4°C), then sow on or just under the surface and keep evenly moist.

What soil and pH does bilberry prefer?

Acidic, well-drained soil is essential—aim for pH 4.5–5.5. Use an ericaceous mix (peat/coir + perlite) and avoid lime.

What light and climate conditions are best?

Partial shade to dappled sun suits bilberry best. It’s cold-hardy and performs well in USDA Zones 3–8.

How long until fruit from seed?

Bilberry grown from seed generally requires patience. Expect several seasons before first meaningful harvests—typically 3–5+ years, depending on conditions.

Can I grow bilberry in containers?

Yes. Choose a deep pot with an acidic, free-draining mix. Maintain consistent moisture and mulch with pine needles or fine bark.

Where to buy bilberry (European blueberry) seeds for sale?

At Seeds World, we offer fresh, open-pollinated Vaccinium myrtillus seeds with fast U.S. shipping. Our seed pack lets you start multiple trays and select the strongest plants for a long-lived patch.