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The blackberry, which grows on thorny canes or brambles, is the largest of the wild berries. Purplish-black in colour, plump, and sweet, it ranges from 1/2 to 1 inch (1.2–2.5cm) long when mature. A single berry is actually a group of “drupelets,” tiny fruits clustered together around a core, with each drupelet containing one seed. This core is edible, and remains inside the fruit even when it is ripe.

Varieties

Most varieties of blackberries, such as the Evergreen Blackberry, are sold under the generic “blackberry” label. One exception is the Marion Blackberry, or Marionberry, a flavorful cross between the Chehalem and Olallieberry blackberries.

In addition to fresh blackberries, some food markets sell bags of frozen blackberries and cans of blackberries in sweet syrup.

Buying and storing tips

Look for plump, shiny blackberries; most varieties will have a core to which the drupelets are attached, but this does not indicate that they are immature. If the berries have a rich aroma, they are ripe. Check the bottom of the container to make sure it has not been stained by crushed or moldy fruit. Fresh blackberries are best used immediately, but they may be refrigerated in a non-airtight container lined with paper towel, preferably in a single layer, for one to two days. They should be washed only just prior to use.

To prevent blackberries sticking together when freezing them, place them on a cookie sheet so that they are not touching each other, and then in the freezer; once frozen, put the berries in a sealable plastic bag.

Availability

Blackberries are widely cultivated in the United States and are available, depending on the region, from May through August.

Preparation, uses, and tips

Eaten out of hand at room temperature, blackberries are delicious. They are also yummy mixed with cream, or cooked into cobblers, jams, and other baked goods, such as pies.

Nutritional Highlights

Blackberries, 1 cup (144g)
Calories: 75
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrate: 18g
Total Fat: 0.6g
Fiber: 7.6g
*Good source of: Folate (49mcg)

*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value. Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries. Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values and the recommended daily guidelines.

Health benefits and concerns

Health benefits and concerns for berries
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other berries. Read about health benefits and concerns for berries for a full description.

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