Vaccinium myrtillus, popularly known as blueberry, belongs to the Ericaceae family, the same as azalea, rhododendron and arbutus. In Portugal, in addition to the name blueberry, it is also called uva-do-monte. It is a small shrub native to the temperate regions of Eurasia, where it often grows in forest understories.
This shrub is widely cultivated for the production of its fruit, small berries with a purplish-blue color when ripe, characterized by a sweet-acidic taste. In addition to the European blueberry, there is also the American blueberry, native to North America. The plant is well adapted to temperate climates, which has led to its expansion in various regions of the world, including Portugal.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, fiber and vitamins and have been gaining prominence in the context of healthy eating. Its cultivation requires acidic, well-drained soils, as well as moderate exposure to the sun and frequent watering, factors that contribute to maximizing its production. Vaccinium myrtillus is therefore a crop of growing value both in the agricultural sector and in the nutritional context, thanks to its beneficial properties for human health.
Its versatility allows it to be used both for direct consumption and in various applications in the food industry, including jams, juices and pastries, consolidating it as an important fruit species that is expanding in the European market.
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