Blueberry and bilberry are two different berries often confused due to their similar appearance. Despite belonging to the same botanical family of Ericaceae, there are significant differences between them. In this article, we’ll explore what sets blueberries apart from bilberries and determine the advantages of each.
Table of contents
Taxonomy and Origin
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) is a small perennial woody plant native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. It belongs to the genus Vaccinium.
Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) is a plant with large bushes, cultivated varieties of which were developed from wild blueberry species native to North America.
External Differences
The main difference between bilberry and blueberry is evident in the size of the plants, bushes, and fruits:
Bilberry:
- Low bush up to 20 inches tall
- Small, dark blue, almost black fruits, 0.2-0.3 inches in diameter
- Thin, flexible stems
Blueberry:
- Tall bushes up to 6-10 feet high
- Large blue-purple fruits, 0.4-0.6 inches in diameter
- Thick, rigid stems
Taste Differences
The taste difference is also quite significant. While both bilberry and blueberry have a characteristic sweet-tart flavor, blueberries are considered sweeter. Bilberries have a slightly astringent but vibrant aroma and taste, which many consider more intense and pleasant.
Cultivation and Harvesting
Blueberries are much more challenging to grow at home than bilberries. Blueberries require specific soil conditions, frequent fertilization, and constant watering. Bilberries can grow wild in forests and are found in nature. They can be successfully grown both in a backyard and at a country house, maintaining the natural conditions of their habitat.
However, both berries taste best when freshly picked. That’s why bilberries or blueberries from your own garden will always be tastier than those that were picked earlier and transported. Hand-picked berries retain maximum nutrients and vitamins and have the best taste qualities.
Ways of Consumption
Both of these berries are versatile in use – they can be eaten fresh, added to baked goods, desserts, and smoothies, and used for fillings, juices, and jams. It’s worth remembering that, due to their more delicate consistency, bilberries are best consumed whole, while blueberries can be baked or cooked thanks to their denser structure.
How to Properly Freeze Blueberries and Bilberries
To properly freeze blueberries and bilberries and maximize their flavor and nutritional properties, it’s recommended to follow these tips:
- Sorting and washing: Carefully sort through the berries and remove damaged and spoiled ones. Gently wash the blueberries and bilberries under running water, slightly dry, on paper towels.
- Freezing fresh: Freeze the berries whole as soon as possible after harvesting. There is no need to cook or blanch them before freezing. This way, vitamins, and flavor will be preserved to the maximum.
- Spread in an even layer: Spread the berries in an even layer on a tray or sheet so they don’t stick together when freezing.
- Quick freezing: For the fastest freezing, place the tray with berries in the freezer for a few hours. After they’re well frozen, you can transfer them to plastic bags or containers.
- Airtight packaging: Use airtight bags or containers for freezing, remove as much air as possible before closing. This will prevent ice formation and damage to the berries.
- Storage temperature: Store frozen blueberries and bilberries at -0.4°F or lower. Under these conditions, they will remain fresh for up to 12 months.
By following these recommendations, you can enjoy the great taste and benefits of frozen blueberries and bilberries throughout the year.
Conclusion
Both bilberries and blueberries are very beneficial, delicious, and valuable berries. Bilberries are more miniature and have a vibrant flavor, making them ideal for fresh consumption. And larger, sweeter blueberries will be a real decoration for any dessert or pastry.
So, if you’re limited in space and time for plant care, bilberries will be the ideal solution for you. If you want to get a generous, rich harvest of aromatic large berries and aren’t afraid of labor-intensive growing processes – prefer blueberries.
The most important thing is to grow these amazing plants with love and enjoy their taste and benefits to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions about Blueberries and Bilberries:
How do I grow bilberries at home?
Bilberries can be grown in pots or on open ground. They need enough moisture and sunlight. In growing bilberries at home, it helps to know that 94% of their sugar content is sucrose.
What are the benefits and potential harms of blueberries?
Blueberries contain high amounts of vitamins C and K and also help lower cholesterol levels. However, high consumption of blueberries can cause allergic reactions in 4-6% of the population.
How to use blueberries and bilberries in cooking?
Blueberries and bilberries are great for desserts, juices, jams, and salads. They can also be added to yoghurt or porridge. In cooking, they are often used because 100 grams of bilberries contain 1.5 g of protein, 0.5 g of fat, 9.8 g of carbohydrates, and 44 kcal, while 100 grams of blueberries contain 1.5 g of protein, 0.5 g of fat, 7 g of carbohydrates, and 35 kcal.
How to store fresh blueberries and bilberries?
Fresh blueberries and bilberries are best stored in the refrigerator, in containers or bags, to maintain their freshness and beneficial properties.