1999 33c Blueberry

U.S. #3294
1999 33¢ Blueberries
Flora and Fauna

Issue Date: April 10, 1999
City: Ponchatoula, LA
Printed By: Guilford Gravure for Banknote Corporation of America
Printing Method: Photogravure
Perforations: 11 ¼ x 11 ½
Color: Multicolored

Maine is the largest U.S. producer of Lowbush Blueberries, a small fruit that grows on shrubs of the same name. Hardy blueberries thrive in the state’s naturally acidic soil and are resistant to many native pests. Approximately 60,000 acres of wild blueberries grow naturally in sunny open fields across Maine. The July harvest is important to Maine’s economy, with an average annual value of more than $75 million. The sweet-tasting fruit is a valuable source of antioxidants and may even contain compounds that are said to protect against Alzheimer’s Disease.