The Japanese Blueberry Tree, scientifically known as Elaeocarpus decipiens, is a popular evergreen tree often chosen for its ornamental appeal in landscaping. It typically grows 30 to 60 feet tall and 15 to 30 feet wide. It is frequently utilized as a street tree, for privacy screens, hedges, or as a distinctive feature in lawns and gardens, valued for its dense foliage and elegant growth habit. The tree displays glossy green leaves that provide year-round visual interest, with older leaves turning a vibrant reddish-orange before dropping, and new growth often emerging with a bronze tint.
Japanese Blueberry Tree Fruit Characteristics
The fruit of the Japanese Blueberry Tree is small and typically olive-shaped, maturing from green to a dark blue or black color. Despite its common name and blue hue, this tree is not a true blueberry and belongs to a different botanical family, Elaeocarpaceae, not the Vaccinium genus. The fruit’s appearance can be misleading, as it resembles a blueberry in color but differs significantly in shape and internal structure.
The fruit is botanically classified as a drupe, meaning it contains a single, hard seed or pit at its center. This internal structure contrasts with the multiple tiny seeds found in true blueberries. While some sources describe the fruit as having a “slightly sweet taste,” the general consensus is that its flavor is bland, astringent, or unpalatable for human consumption. Many sources explicitly state the fruit is “inedible” for humans, emphasizing its primary value as an ornamental feature rather than a food source.
Edibility and Consumption Considerations
The fruit of the Japanese Blueberry Tree is predominantly consumed by birds and other wildlife, which are attracted to its color. While some reports suggest it might be technically edible, consuming it in large quantities could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
If considering any consumption, it is advisable to ensure the tree has not been treated with pesticides or other harmful chemicals, as these can make the fruit unsafe. The misleading common name can cause confusion, so it is important to differentiate the Japanese Blueberry Tree from true culinary blueberries, which belong to a different plant family. Furthermore, while generally considered safe for birds, some sources advise caution for pet owners regarding consumption by domestic animals, though it is not listed as toxic by some major animal poison control centers.