Blueberry is an adorable superfruit that is native to North America. They are officially designated under the section Cyanococcus within the genus Vaccinium. This genus is home to many other berries, including bilberries, huckleberries, cranberries, and whatnot. Its plant appears in the form of a prostate shrub that can go as high as 13 feet. Commercially, the small (pea-sized) blueberries emerge in the ‘lowbush blueberries’ category while the larger ones appear on relatively taller bushes, known as highbush ‘blueberries.’
The plump shape and vivid blue color of blueberries are yet another surprising element of mother nature. That blue color cannot be neglected as it comes from anthocyanin, an antioxidant. This crown-forming perennial shrub produces oval to elliptical leaves, arranged alternately on the stems. Its flowers arise in clusters of 8 to 10, with a color palette ranging from white to pink. The stems and twigs are originally yellowish green but turn red during winters.
Blueberries complement a vast range of recipes. From adding flavors to the meat to curing coughs, from making nice purple dye to a brewing cup of tea, blueberries have bagged all the medals on its shelves. Medicinally, they strengthen the bones, help with cancer prevention, manage blood glucose levels, enhance skin health, control, blood pressure, and promote healthy heart functioning.