Mountain huckleberry, vaccinium membranaceum, also known as thin-leaf huckleberry is Idaho's native huckleberry found in the forests. Although these cannot be field grown, it is quite possible for the savvy homegardener to grow them at home when they create the right conditions for them to thrive. If you have any luck with blueberries, you can have success with huckleberries! For more information, please refer to University of Idaho's research titled "Growing Western Huckleberries" found at this URL: https://shorturl.at/9pbUQ

Slow growing, this plant produces a flavorful black to purple fruit that is highly prized by humans and animals. It requires moist, well-drained, acidic soil that is high in organic matter. Production directly correlates with the amount of sunlight received, but be mindful of the scorching summer sun and provide filtered shade during the hottest months. When autumn arrives, the leaves change to a beautiful myriad of orange, red, and maroon hues. To avoid winter dieback, ensure that the plants are covered with 1-2’ of snow throughout the winter. Hardy to zones 4-8.