Rubus urticifolius
Although similar in appearance, this berry is not related to blackberry which, together with raspberry and strawberry, are called “frutas vermelhas” (literally “red fruits”) in Brazil, and are often imported. On the contrary, black mulberry is a wild fruit native to Brazil’s Cerrado and Atlantic rainforest areas. Sweet and tart at the same time, it ranges from dark red to purple when ripe. It is usually eaten on the spot, right out of the bushes or trees scattered even on roadsides at Southeast and the Midwest regions, but it can also be used in juices, preserves, and jams. Also called amora-do-mato in Portuguese.
