Bloodstone

Releasing Organization: NCSU
Release Year: 1984
Breeder’s Team: James Ballington
‘Bloodstone’ was selected from a native stand of large-leaved creeping blueberry (Vaccinium sempervirens) under current taxonomic treatment) in Lexington County, S. C., in 1979.
This clone has a broadly elliptic leaf that is dark green and semi-lustrous. The leaf size and texture of the plant are particularly reminiscent of periwinkle (Vinca minor). The light reddish-green of the new growth contrasts well with the mature foliage in summer. In winter late maturing foliage takes on an attractive reddish cast and the stems become a distinctive dark red. The name ‘Bloodstone’ was chosen to reflect these seasonal color changes and contrasts.
This cultivar appears to have outstanding potential as an evergreen groundcover when established on well-drained sites in the eastern piedmont, sandhills, and inner coastal plain of the Carolinas, and probably the entire southeastern United States. It is adapted to full sun as well as partial shade.
‘Bloodstone’ has exhibited problems with Phytophthora cimmamoni and leaf and stem anthracnose (Colletotrichum gieosporioides) under conditions of excessive soil moisture and high temperature and’ humidity at Castle Hayne) in the outer coastal plain of North Carolina.