Cloudberry
rubus chamaemorus
Also known as: ["Bakeapple","Aronia","Nordic berry"]
Overview
A low-growing herbaceous plant with yellow flowers and edible orange fruits, native to Arctic and subarctic regions.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rubus |
| Botanical Name: | Rubus chamaemorus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: boggy areas or raised beds with consistent moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moist but well-draining; does not tolerate waterlogged or dry conditions.
- Soil Type: Acidic, peaty, well-draining soil with high organic matter; mimics boggy or wetland conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded canes.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); prefers cooler conditions, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Maintain consistent moisture without saturation; water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; adjust based on weather and growth stage.
Soil
acidic, moist, well-drained peat-based soil
pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).
Maintain consistent moisture; avoid compacted soil; enrich with acidic organic matter annually.
Temperature
Cool to cold temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C); requires a period of cold dormancy for fruiting; tolerates frost but not extreme heat.
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure cold exposure in winter for fruiting; avoid placing in hot, dry locations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; focus on phosphorus and potassium for fruiting; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of rhizomes can also be used for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds from ripe fruit.
- Cold stratify for 60–90 days.
- Sow in prepared medium.
- Keep moist and shaded until germination.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in active fruiting.
Environment
Cool temperatures (40–50°F or 4–10°C) for seeds; partial shade and consistent moisture for rhizome division.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix with added organic matter; seeds require cold stratification for germination.
Hormone
Not typically needed for seeds; rooting hormone may aid rhizome division.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and establish; rhizome division can produce new plants in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, cold frame, sharp knife (for rhizome division), rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Ensure proper cold stratification for seeds; divide rhizomes only when the plant is mature; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut canes back to the ground; thin out older canes to encourage new growth; avoid excessive pruning which can reduce fruiting.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged canes to improve air circulation and fruit quality.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy; remove only necessary canes; clean up debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
No specific pot size increase; focus on spacing and soil quality rather than container size.
Method
Carefully divide the rhizomes; replant in well-draining soil with adequate space; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; prefers undisturbed roots; division may be necessary if the plant becomes overcrowded.
Checklist
Prepare new planting site or container; water plant before division; divide gently to avoid root damage; replant immediately.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; ensure water penetrates the root zone thoroughly.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during growing season (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to enhance acidity and organic content; ensure good drainage with sand or perlite if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; delayed flowering or fruiting in insufficient cold exposure.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth but are necessary for dormancy; extreme cold can damage roots if not protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold weather; provide wind protection in exposed areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and fruit drop; may go dormant if temperatures are too high.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots; follow package instructions.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRubus chamaemorus is not toxic to cats. Similar to dogs, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fiber content. No toxic compounds are known to affect cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicCloudberry is not toxic to dogs. However, large quantities may cause mild digestive upset due to the plant's fiber content. There are no known toxic compounds in Rubus chamaemorus that would harm dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Humans
Non-toxicRubus chamaemorus, commonly known as cloudberry, is generally considered safe for human consumption. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the cloudberry plant toxic to pets?
A: No, the cloudberry is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the uses of cloudberry?
A: The fruits are edible and used in jams, desserts, and traditional Nordic cuisine.
Q: Where does the cloudberry grow naturally?
A: It is native to Arctic and subarctic regions, thriving in boggy, acidic soils.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
