Farkleberry
Vaccinium arboreum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Vaccinium arboreum (Farkleberry) is a native deciduous tree found across the southeastern United States from Texas to Virginia. It produces small white bell-shaped flowers from March through May that attract bees and butterflies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Farkleberry as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
144"–180" H × 120"–144" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 13 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Farkleberry is a small native tree that produces clusters of white bell-shaped flowers in spring followed by small dark berries. This semi-evergreen species develops an attractive branching structure and provides year-round interest in the landscape.
Growing Farkleberry
Grow Farkleberry in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 144 to 180 inches tall and spread 120 to 144 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Farkleberry is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Trees often require HOA/ARC approval even when allowed.
- Verify setbacks from sidewalks, driveways, utilities, and structures.
- Confirm mature height/canopy limits and sightline rules for corners.
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract bees and butterflies, while the berries feed birds and small mammals throughout fall and winter.
Common questions
- Where does Farkleberry naturally grow?
- Farkleberry is native to 19 states across the southeastern and south-central United States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
- When does Vaccinium arboreum bloom?
- Farkleberry typically blooms from March through May, producing clusters of small white or pinkish bell-shaped flowers that are attractive to pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Farkleberry flowers?
- Farkleberry flowers attract various bees and butterflies, making it a valuable native plant for supporting pollinator populations in its native range.
- What growing conditions does Farkleberry prefer?
- Farkleberry adapts to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils with low to medium moisture levels. It is drought tolerant once established.
- Is Farkleberry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Farkleberry as toxic to livestock.
- Is Farkleberry HOA-friendly?
- Farkleberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate 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.
Does Farkleberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.