björnbär

Björnbär, or blackberry, refers to the fruit of several Rubus species in the rose family (Rosaceae). In Swedish usage it denotes the edible blackberry fruit and the canes that bear it. Botanically, blackberries belong to the Rubus fruticosus aggregate, a group of closely related species and hybrids. The fruit is a large, dark purple to black aggregate consisting of numerous drupelets surrounding small seeds. The perennial canes are typically arching and armed with thorns; leaves are usually palmately compound with three or five leaflets. Flowers are white to pale pink, typically five-petalled, and occur in spring to early summer.

Björnbär is native to parts of Europe, Northwest Africa and western Asia, and has been cultivated and naturalized widely in temperate regions around the world. The plants prefer full sun and well-drained, fertile soil. They produce fruit on canes that emerge in late winter or spring, with harvests often extending over several weeks. Pollination is mainly by bees, and birds contribute to seed dispersal after fruit drop. In cultivation, growers prune canes to manage yield and plant health; management may address pests and diseases such as rusts, mildews, and cane blights.

Culinary use centers on fresh consumption and processing into jams, jellies, desserts and beverages. Nutritionally, björnbär berries are high in vitamin C and dietary fiber and contain antioxidants. Breeding programs distinguish summer-bearing and everbearing (primocane) varieties to extend fruiting seasons.