Japanese Blueberry has beautiful dark foliage that forms a compact and dense bush. The 'Little Emperor' in particular is a dwarf variety, allowing for the look of the Japanese Blueberry Tree without the size. It is an evergreen but the oldest leaves turn a fiery red, making it a brilliant ornamental piece. They can also be used as a hedge plant.
How to care for Little Emperor Japanese Blueberry
Light. Full sun. Like the full-size tree, it also grows in partial shade.
Water. Water regularly until established. It does best with fairly regular watering afterward, though the species has good drought tolerance.
Soil and feeding. Plant in well-drained soil. Japanese blueberry leaves can turn yellow in high-pH soil, so test the soil before planting.
Size. A dwarf form that grows to about 6 ft, dense enough for a hedge.
Pruning. Hand-prune to keep the shape. Growth is slow, so avoid heavy cutting.
Problems to watch. Japanese blueberry is relatively pest free. Dropped fruit and old leaves can be messy on paving.
Good to know. New leaves come in bronze, and older inner leaves turn red each spring. The small blue fruit is not edible.
Sources: UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County: A newer plant on the block - Japanese blueberry · NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Elaeocarpus decipiens
