Blueberries (Vaccinium sect. Cyanococcus) are native to North America, where they have been enjoyed by Native Americans for thousands of years. They called them "star berries" because of the star-shaped calyx on each berry's blossom end. Native Americans used blueberries medicinally and as a natural dye, as well as a food source.
Commercial cultivation began in the early 20th century through the efforts of botanist Frederick Coville and farmer Elizabeth White. Today, North America produces nearly 90% of the world's blueberries, with the United States being the largest producer.
There are three main types of blueberries: highbush (most common commercially), lowbush (wild blueberries), and rabbiteye (southern varieties). Popular cultivars include 'Bluecrop', 'Jersey', 'Duke', and 'Pink Lemonade' (a pink-blueberry variety).
