The cloudberry, Rubus chamaemorus, has been selected as the plant of the year for 2026 by the Latvian Botanical Society.
A Unique Botanical Choice
This perennial plant, belonging to the rose family, is a relatively small species, growing between 5 and 30 centimeters in height. It features distinctive star-shaped leaves and blooms with white flowers from May through June.
Local Names and Habitats
Known as lācenes, or “bear-berries,” in Latvian, the cloudberry also goes by several other regional names, including šķomenes and murakas. In the Madona area, it is sometimes called spradzenes, though this name is also used for a different species, Fragaria viridis, which grows in drier conditions.
Cloudberries thrive in specific environments, typically found in moss bogs and boggy pine forests. They grow alongside sphagnum moss, cranberries, and andromeda, preferring light, acidic, and nutrient-poor soils. The plant is more prevalent in northern Latvia.
Conservation and Cultivation
Currently, cloudberries are not listed among Latvia’s specially protected species, meaning their distribution isn’t specifically monitored. However, the plant faces threats from spring frosts and relies on pollinators for reproduction.
While not typically grown in gardens, there have been attempts to cultivate cloudberries in peat bogs. Currently, the berries are considered a delicacy, available at Latvian markets in July, and are sold at a premium price.
The Latvian Botanical Society is encouraging the public to report cloudberry sightings through the portal dabasdati.lv.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of year do cloudberries bloom?
Cloudberries bloom from May to June.
Are cloudberries commonly found throughout Latvia?
Cloudberries are more common in northern Latvia.
Can cloudberries be grown in a typical Latvian garden?
Cloudberries do not grow in gardens in Latvia, but there have been attempts to grow them in peat bogs.
Will increased public awareness, prompted by the plant of the year designation, lead to further study or conservation initiatives for this unique species?
