Agraz

Rubus glaucus — Rosaceae

Italiano: Agraz / Mora andina

agraz

Description

Agraz (Rubus glaucus) belongs to the Rosaceae family and is native to SouthAmerica. It thrives in Andean cloud forest, paramo edges, 2000-3500m environments across regions including SouthAmerica.

Botanically, Agraz is andean blackberry with distinctive white-bloomed canes and large sweet-tart dark berries. Major commercial and wild fruit..

The edible parts include Berries. With an edibility rating of 7/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during August, July, June, November, October and September.

Nutritionally, Agraz stands out for its Vitamin C (45.0mg, 50% DV), Vitamin K (30.0mg, 25% DV) and Vitamin E (1.0mg, 7% DV). It also provides 2.0g protein and 5.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Agraz offers a Sweet-tart, intense blackberry, slightly winey flavor profile. Pick when dark and soft; wash; use fresh or process. Common culinary applications include Fresh eating, Jams, Wines, Juice, Sauces. Popular preparations include Cook berries with sugar for jam; or ferment into wine.

For storage, refrigerate fresh parts.

Safety note: Thorny canes; wear gloves when harvesting. Antinutrient content is minimal. Be aware that Verify identification before consumption. Safe lookalike species include Similar edible species. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect agraz during Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct and Nov. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically andean cloud forest, paramo edges, 2000-3500m. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional SouthAmerica communities have long valued agraz as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, agraz pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

7/10
Toxicity: Thorny canes; wear gloves when harvesting
Antinutrients: Minimal
Safe lookalikes: Similar edible species
Dangerous: Verify identification before consumption

Harvest Calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edible parts: Berries
Preparation: Pick when dark and soft; wash; use fresh or process
Flavor: Sweet-tart, intense blackberry, slightly winey

Nutrition (per 100g)

Protein: 2.0g
Fat: 0.5g
Fiber: 5.0g
Vitamin C: 45.0mg (50%DV)
Vitamin A: 50mcg (5%DV)
Vitamin E: 1.0mg (6%DV)
Vitamin K: 30mcg (25%DV)
Folate (B9): 20mcg (5%DV)
Calcium: 30.0mg (2%DV)
Iron: 1.0mg (5%DV)
Magnesium: 20mg (4%DV)
Potassium: 200mg (4%DV)
Zinc: 0.3mg (2%DV)

Culinary Uses

Fresh eating, Jams, Wines, Juice, Sauces

Storage

Refrigerate fresh parts

Recipes

  • Cook berries with sugar for jam; or ferment into wine

Where It Grows

Continent: SouthAmerica
Regions: SouthAmerica
Habitat: Andean cloud forest, paramo edges, 2000-3500m