Blueberry / blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Swedish: Blåbär | English: Bilberry / Blueberry | Family: Heather family (Ericaceae)
Blueberry / blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus)
Botanical illustration: Blueberry / Blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), in Swedish'Blåbär'.
The blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), known as Blåbär, forms the characteristic green carpet of northern Swedish spruce and pine forests.
Unlike cultivated blueberries, wild Blåbär has a deep, dark blue, juicy flesh full of valuable antioxidants (anthocyanins). In late summer, thousands of Swedes migrate to the forests to harvest.
Facts & Characteristics
- Scientific Name: Blaubeere
- Category / Order: Pflanzen (Flora)
- Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten: Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten
- Native to Northern Sweden: Native to Northern Sweden
Questions & Answers (FAQ)
When is peak blueberry season in Lapland?
August to September is the best harvest time.
What distinguishes wild blueberries from cultivated blueberries?
Wild blueberries are smaller, have red/blue flesh (colors the tongue and teeth!) and have a much more intense aroma.