Andean Raspberry

Rubus adenotrichos — Rosaceae

Italiano: Lampone andino

andean raspberry

Description

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

Botanically, Andean Raspberry is high-altitude Andean raspberry with hairy canes producing small intensely flavored red to dark purple berries..

The edible parts include Berries. With an edibility rating of 6/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during August, July, October and September.

Nutritionally, Andean Raspberry 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, Andean Raspberry offers a Intense raspberry, slightly hairy texture, sweet-tart flavor profile. Pick when fully colored; wash gently; eat or cook. Common culinary applications include Fresh eating, Jams, Juice. Popular preparations include Eat fresh or cook into sauce for desserts.

For storage, refrigerate fresh parts.

Safety note: Canes very hairy; berries have subtle hairiness. 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 andean raspberry during Jul, Aug, Sep and Oct. 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 forest, paramo, 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 andean raspberry 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, andean raspberry 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

6/10
Toxicity: Canes very hairy; berries have subtle hairiness
Antinutrients: Minimal
Safe lookalikes: Similar edible species
Dangerous: Verify identification before consumption

Harvest Calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edible parts: Berries
Preparation: Pick when fully colored; wash gently; eat or cook
Flavor: Intense raspberry, slightly hairy texture, sweet-tart

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, Juice

Storage

Refrigerate fresh parts

Recipes

  • Eat fresh or cook into sauce for desserts

Where It Grows

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