Cloudberry
Rubus chamaemorus
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Description
Cloudberry (Rubus chamaemorus) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly the Arctic and subarctic areas. It thrives in acidic, peaty soils found in bogs, marshes, and wet meadows, often forming extensive colonies through its creeping rhizomes. The plant features low-growing, upright stems with dioecious white flowers, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants. The amber-colored berries are highly prized for their unique flavor and nutritional value. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, cloudberries play a crucial role in wetland restoration projects, enhancing biodiversity and providing a valuable food source for wildlife and humans. They are an essential component of the shrub layer in food forests and can be paired with other acid-loving plants like cranberries and blueberries. Historically, cloudberries have been used by Indigenous peoples for their nutritional and medicinal properties, and they continue to be a cultural staple in northern regions.
Growing Details
Cloudberries require acidic, wet, and peaty soils with a pH of 3.5 to 5.5. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as sphagnum peat moss to maintain moisture and acidity. Mulching with pine needles can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include other acid-loving species like cranberries and blueberries. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest berries in late summer when they are fully ripe and amber-colored. Store
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Rubus chamaemorus</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Arctic and subarctic regions of the
applicable geo region: Northern Hemisphere
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 30 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: Cloudberries are highly valued for their sweet and tart flavor, often used in jams, jellies, desserts, and liqueurs. The berries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and ellagic acid, making them a nutritious addition to the diet. They are typically harvested in late summer when they turn a deep amber color.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, cloudberries have been used in folk medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They are believed to support immune health and have been used to treat colds, fevers, and other ailments. The leaves have also been used in herbal teas for their potential health benefits.
health concerns: While generally safe, excessive consumption of cloudberries may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals due to their high acidity.
other uses: Cloudberries can be used to make natural dyes and are also important for wildlife, providing food for birds and mammals. They contribute to the ecological balance of wetland environments.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Rubus chamaemorus</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Rubus chamaemorus
common names: Cloudberry; Bakeapple; Knotberry
family: Rosaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Rubus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.5 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / -40ยฐC / 20ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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(1/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 20 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Slow
max height: 0.3 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Heavy
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Dioecious
growth details: Cloudberries require acidic, wet, and peaty soils with a pH of 3.5 to 5.5. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as sphagnum peat moss to maintain moisture and acidity. Mulching with pine needles can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include other acid-loving species like cranberries and blueberries. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Harvest berries in late summer when they are fully ripe and amber-colored. Store
Potential Disturbances: Cloudberries are relatively pest-free but can be affected by fungal diseases such as gray mold in overly wet conditions. To manage fungal issues, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Beneficial insects like ladybugs can help control aphid populations, while planting garlic or chives nearby can deter fungal growth.
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