The
raspberry is the edible fruit of a multitude of plant species in the genus
Rubus of the
rose family, most of which are in the subgenus
Idaeobatus. The name also applies to the plant itself. Raspberry plants are
perennial with
woody stems. It is an
aggregate fruit, developing from the numerous distinct carpels of a single flower. Originally occurring in
East Asia, the raspberry is now cultivated across northern Europe and North America and is eaten in a variety of ways including as a whole fruit and in
preserves, cakes, ice cream and liqueurs. Raspberries are a rich source of
vitamin C,
manganese, and
dietary fiber.
Photograph credit: Ivar Leidus