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Pink Lemonade Blueberries
Inventory, bskt : 0
This item was last sold on : 07/27/22
Description/Taste
The somewhat misleading color of the Pink Lemonade blueberry at first appears an unripe yellow-green, but eventually becomes more dappled with light pink and fuchsia when ready for harvesting. Similar to their blue cousins, Pink Lemonade blueberries have a firm texture and juicy interior. With a far higher sugar content and an unmistakable lemony flavor, it is clear how their name soon followed. One developer described the flavor as being both "sweet and flowery".
Seasons/Availability
Pink Lemonade blueberries are available during the mid-summer months.
Current Facts
These brightly colored berries are relatively new to the berry market. Pink Lemonade blueberries, or Vaccinium 'Pink Lemonade' are the first of their kind, specially developed by the USDA. Upon first glimpse, they give the illusion of an unripened blueberry, but with one taste the super sweet and tangy flavor proves that they are unlike any traditional blueberry.
Nutritional Value
Pink Lemonade blueberries share the same antioxidant and mineral rich nutrition that other blueberry varieties offer. They are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber.
Applications
The high sugar content of Pink Lemonade blueberries make them ideal for fresh eating and baking. Substitute them for the common blue variety in tarts or pies. A jam or jelly made from Pink Lemonade blueberries delivers a familiar flavor, with an unconventional color. The color of Pink Lemonade blueberries is the real draw; they add a punch to fruit salads and make a stunning garnish for desserts without imparting a dark staining quality.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Like most other varieties, the Pink Lemonade blueberry prefers acidic soils. Historically, pine needles have been used as a natural mulch, because as they break down they impart acidity into the soils surrounding the plants.
Geography/History
Pink Lemonade blueberries were developed by the USDA over a span of ten years. They are a cross between an experimental blueberry and the commercial ‘Delite’ variety. First introduced in 2005 as “ARS 96-138”, the Vaccinium hybrid was officially named ‘Pink Lemonade’ in 2007. The highbush Pink Lemonade blueberries are well-suited to milder growing regions where temperatures do not go below 0°F.
