Black Huckleberry
Gaylussacia baccata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Black Huckleberry is a native deciduous shrub found across eastern North America from Maine to Georgia. It produces white bell-shaped flowers in May and June, followed by edible dark berries that attract wildlife.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Black Huckleberry as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Black huckleberry is a compact native shrub that produces small white or pink bell-shaped flowers in late spring, followed by dark blue edible berries in summer. The foliage turns attractive shades of red and orange in fall before dropping for winter.
Growing Black Huckleberry
Grow Black Huckleberry in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Black Huckleberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies in May and June. The berries provide food for birds and small mammals throughout summer.
Common questions
- Where does Black Huckleberry naturally grow?
- Gaylussacia baccata is native to much of eastern North America, ranging from Maine south to Georgia and west to Minnesota, Iowa, and Arkansas.
- When does Black Huckleberry bloom?
- Black Huckleberry produces its white, bell-shaped flowers during May and June.
- What pollinators visit Black Huckleberry?
- The flowers attract various bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators for this native shrub.
- What growing conditions does Black Huckleberry prefer?
- This adaptable shrub tolerates full sun to partial shade and prefers medium to low water conditions, making it suitable for naturalized landscapes and native plant gardens.
- Is Black Huckleberry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Black Huckleberry as toxic to livestock.
- Is Black Huckleberry HOA-friendly?
- Black Huckleberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Black Huckleberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz