Light. Full sun. It also grows in partial shade.
Water. Water regularly until established. It does best with fairly regular watering afterward, though it has good drought tolerance.
Soil and feeding. Plant in well-drained soil. Leaves can turn yellow in high-pH soil, so have the soil tested before planting, especially in fill soil near new homes.
Size. Grows to about 20 ft as a narrow, cone-shaped tree; old trees can reach 30 to 40 ft. Growth is slow.
Pruning. Hand-prune to keep the shape as it matures, but do not overdo it, since it grows back slowly.
Problems to watch. It is relatively pest free. Fruit and old leaves drop onto walkways and patios.
Good to know. New leaves are bronze, and older inner leaves turn red each spring. Small fragrant white flowers appear in spring. The 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
