Castilla Blackberries (Robus glaucus)

Mora de Castilla (Robus glaucus): Another local variety for culinary and botanical enthusiasts. Growing in the Andes, where it is found between 1,500 and 3,000 meters above sea level, the fruit is a polydrupe similar to blackberries and raspberries (with which it shares a genus), oblong in shape and slightly larger. At ripening, they range from red to black, similar to local blackberries. So why grow them? For their flavor, similar to a blackberry-raspberry hybrid, with a more pronounced acidity and an aftertaste reminiscent of pineapple. The complexity of its taste makes it very attractive to culinary experts and those seeking new aromas.
In the field, the plant is a bit like a bramble: hardy, vigorous, and productive, it clearly has needs that must be met. Despite its high-altitude habitat, it loves the heat, but also humidity, and prefers partial shade.
The adult plant can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C if this condition is not prolonged. During the first year of growth, we recommend using nonwoven fabric to protect the seedling from frost.
You can grow it by "marrying" it to a tree, or by supporting it with a trellis like a grapevine. Proper pruning is very beneficial; this summer (2026), we'll be making a video tutorial with two-year-old plants, so we can give you the tools for next year.