These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
2 year old plants, 16-20 inches tall. 1 Liter container.
Key Characteristics of O'Neal Southern Highbush Blueberry:
Origin: 'O'Neal' is a Southern Highbush blueberry cultivar (Vaccinium corymbosum hybrid) developed by North Carolina State University and released in 1987. It is the result of a cross between 'Wolcott' and 'Florida 4-15'. It was bred for its very early ripening, large fruit size, good flavor, and adaptation to the warmer climates of the southern United States with lower chilling requirements.
Patent Status: 'O'Neal' was released in 1987, prior to the era of widespread plant patenting for fruit cultivars, especially those developed by public institutions.'O'Neal' Southern Highbush Blueberry was either never patented, or the patent expired, and it is now considered a public domain variety. It can be freely propagated and distributed.
Berry Production: Produces large, firm, light blue berries with a notably sweet and flavorful taste, often considered one of the best-tasting early Southern Highbush varieties. It is known for its early and consistent yields. The berries have a good shelf life.
Ripening Time: 'O'Neal' is one of the earliest ripening Southern Highbush blueberries, typically maturing in late April to mid-May in the southeastern United States. This very early ripening is its most significant characteristic.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'O'Neal' is a moderately vigorous, semi-upright to spreading shrub that can reach a mature height and spread of 4 to 6 feet. It has attractive grey-green foliage with reddish stems and branches. It may bloom in the fall in warmer climates.
Flowers: Produces white, bell-shaped flowers in early spring. It has an extended bloom period, making it a desirable pollinizer for other Southern Highbush cultivars.
Hardiness: 'O'Neal' is best suited for USDA Zones 7 through 9, reflecting its low chilling requirement (around 400-500 chill hours below 45°F). It can be grown in Zone 5 and 6 with protection and has shown some success in Zone 10. It is reportedly hardy to about 5°F (-15°C).
Pollination: While 'O'Neal' is considered partially self-fertile, planting with another compatible Southern Highbush variety with a similar bloom time is recommended for optimal fruit set, larger berries, and increased yields. Recommended pollinizers include 'Sharpblue', 'Georgia Gem', 'Cape Fear', 'Star', 'Santa Fe', and 'Rebel'.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal fruit production.
Soil: Prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 that is well-drained and rich in organic matter.
Watering: Needs consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruit development.
Fertilizing: Benefits from fertilization in early spring with an acid-forming fertilizer specifically formulated for blueberries.
Pruning: Should be pruned during the winter while the bush is dormant to remove dead or crossing branches and to encourage new growth. After harvest, non-fruit-bearing branches can be pruned.
Uses: The early, sweet berries are excellent for:
Fresh eating
Baking into pies and other desserts
Making jams and preserves
Extending the early blueberry season in warmer climates.
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds.
Ornamental Value: 'O'Neal' offers some ornamental appeal with its attractive foliage and early bloom. It can also have good fall color.
Disease and Pest Resistance: 'O'Neal' is generally considered to have good disease resistance.
