What is a cloudberry?
Q: What is a cloudberry?
A: A cloudberry (Rubus chamaemorus) is a herbaceous plant found in alpine, tundra and boreal forest. The fruit is an amber-colored edible fruit similar to the raspberry or blackberry.
Q: Where is the cloudberry most commonly cultivated?
A: The cloudberry is not widely cultivated, but it is mostly a wild plant. It is particularly in demand as a delicacy in Russia, Norway, Sweden and Finland.
Q: How much does the cloudberry go for on the wholesale market?
A: Wholesale prices for the cloudberry vary widely by the size of the yearly harvest, but they have gone for as much as €10/kg (in 2004).
Q: What are the characteristics of ripe cloudberries?
A: Ripe cloudberries are golden-yellow, soft and juicy, and are rich in vitamin C. They have a distinctive tart taste when eaten fresh.
Q: What happens when cloudberries become over-ripe?
A: When cloudberries become over-ripe, they have a creamy texture somewhat like yogurt, and a sweetened flavour.
Q: What are some common ways that cloudberries are consumed?
A: Cloudberries are often made into jams, juices, tarts, and liqueurs. They are very popular in Scandinavia.
Q: How does the cloudberry plant spread?
A: The cloudberry plant spreads by two means. Its seeds are spread by birds and mammals, and locally, its rhizomes develop into wide berry patches.
