Season: July to September

Description: There are almost 400 species of blackberry, most of which are native to North and South America, yet there are also Asian and European varieties. Most commercial blackberry growers find it easiest to grow a species that is native to the area. Blackberry shrubs tolerate poor soil and grow quite quickly, which means you can find them growing wild on roadsides, trails and empty lots when they begin to ripen in late summer. Often seen in some form on your dessert plate, the deeply sweet fruit is used in jams, syrups, wines, honeys and baked and frozen foods. They are a great source of antioxidants, fiber, vitamins C and K, folic acid and manganese.