Patriot Blueberry Plant

The Patriot Blueberry was introduced in 1976 — the year America celebrated its 200th birthday — and named in recognition of the U.S. Bicentennial. Developed jointly by the USDA and the University of Maine, Patriot was bred for cold-hardy performance in the Northeast, where many highbush varieties struggle. Nearly 50 years later, it remains one of the most dependable early-season blueberries a home grower can plant, big-berried, disease-resistant, and beautiful in the landscape from spring bloom through fall color. Patriot is self-pollinating and cold-hardy in Zones 3–8.

Big Berries, Early Season

Patriot produces some of the largest berries of any early-season blueberry, firm, lightly sweet, and clean-picking with a small, dry, recessed scar. Berries ripen in June, ahead of most other varieties, and are outstanding fresh off the bush or in pies, jams, preserves, and the freezer. Consistent yields of 10–20 pounds at maturity make it a reliable producer season after season.

Built for the North

Partial lowbush parentage gives Patriot exceptional cold hardiness and a manageable 4–6 foot open-spreading habit. It’s one of the few blueberries that tolerates clay and moisture-retentive soils, with proven resistance to Phytophthora cinnamomi, the soil fungus responsible for root rot.

Why Growers Choose Patriot

• Named for America’s Bicentennial — introduced in 1976, still a top early-season performer
• Large, firm berries — among the biggest of any early-ripening blueberry, ripening in June
• Exceptional cold hardiness — reliable in Zones 3–8, including tough northern climates
• Tolerates clay and wet soils — resistant to Phytophthora cinnamomi root rot
• Four-season ornamental value — spring blooms, summer foliage, and brilliant fall color
• Self-pollinating — produces fruit alone, yields even more with a companion variety nearby