Climbing blueberry (Billardiera longiflora, Nov. Holl. pl. 1:64, t. 89. 1805)

Family: Pittosporaceae

Author: Labill.

Bibliography: Nov. Holl. pl. 1:64, t. 89. 1805

Year: 1805

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Billardiera

Vegetable: False

Observations: Tasmania

Description

The Climbing Blueberry is an intriguing and captivating plant known for its delicate ornamental qualities and enchanting appearance. Scientifically referred to as Billardiera longiflora, this species was first described in 1805, with the scholarly work credited to Labill., in the notable botanical publication, Nov. Holl. pl. 1:64, t. 89.

Originating from the lush and diverse landscapes of Tasmania, the Climbing Blueberry thrives in its native environment, flourishing with an abundance of natural beauty. Belonging to the Pittosporaceae family, this plant is distinguished by its unique climbing habit and visually appealing fruits.

One of the most striking characteristics of Billardiera longiflora is its vibrant, glossy blue berries. These berries provide a stunning contrast against the plant’s verdant green foliage, making it a popular choice for gardeners seeking a touch of exotic elegance in their landscapes. The berries not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens but also draw the curiosity of onlookers due to their unusual and striking coloration.

Additionally, the Climbing Blueberry is cherished for its versatile growth habit. It can gracefully climb over supports, such as trellises and fences, or sprawl across the ground, making it a flexible option for various garden designs. Its ability to adapt to both shaded and partially sunny environments highlights its resilient nature and ease of cultivation.

The ornamental beauty of Billardiera longiflora, combined with its adaptability and unique fruit production, continues to captivate botanists, horticulturists, and plant enthusiasts alike. Its presence in any garden or landscaped space is sure to add a touch of sophistication and a splash of vivid color, all while paying homage to its rich botanical heritage observed in Tasmania.

Common Names

Swe: bärranka
En: Climbing Blueberry, Purple Apple-berry
Zh: 紫蘋果莓
Fi: Lyhtysollia
Sv: Bärranka
: Climbing blueberry

Synonyms

• Billardiera longiflora var. alpina (Rodway)
• Labillardiera longiflora (Schult.)

Distribution

• Tasmania (native)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Sep 28, 2022 by caila pilley (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 30, 2022 by janev10 Jan (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 2, 2022 by Nick Johnson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 2, 2019 by that’s someguy (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jan 13, 2022 by Madeline Freeman (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Sep 28, 2022 by caila pilley (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7303842)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:684268-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Billardiera longiflora Labill.)

Specifications

Growth