Pathfinder Raspberry vs Black Crowberry - TreeTime.ca

Pathfinder Raspberry vs Black Crowberry

Empetrum nigrum

Rubus sp. Pathfinder

CUSTOM GROW

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Black Crowberry
Pathfinder Raspberry

Black Crowberry is a native evergreen shrub that forms low, spreading mats. It has unique foliage that spirals around the stem, and small dark berries, giving it visual appeal. The berries are edible, but can be acidic, so they are not generally eaten fresh. In colder climates, the berries develop a sweet-tart flavor and are often dried or used in desserts, jams, and jellies.

This hardy shrub provides food for birds and mammals, while its flowers attract pollinators such as bees. It also serves as a host plant for certain butterflies and moths. Together, these roles make it a key contributor to the health of tundra and boreal ecosystems.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the berries are known locally as ‘blackberries’ and are enjoyed in jams, jellies, and traditional baked goods such as buns and puddings. In Scandinavia, they continue to be used in liqueurs, wines, and juices.

The Pathfinder is a classic red raspberry variety that is extremely productive with medium to large fruit. It is the earliest fall-bearing raspberry, ready to harvest in August, and produces berries that are firm and sweet.

Red River Raspberry is a primocane-fruiting variety, meaning that it produces fruit on first years' growth. Prune stalks down each winter or early spring to get higher fruit yields and easier harvesting.

Black Crowberry Quick Facts

Pathfinder Raspberry Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 3a
Height: 0.2 m (0.5 ft)
Height: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Spread: 0.4 m (1.3 ft)
Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: any
Moisture: normal
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: fast
Life span: medium
Life span: short
Growth form: low growing, matt-forming
Spreading: rhizomes - medium, seeds - low
Suckering: high


Foliage: evergreen needle-like leaves
Flowers: pink-red, very small
Bloom time: late spring to early summer
Berries: purplish-black, edible
Berries: medium to large
Firmness: firm
Flavor: bland, slightly bitter
Harvest: late summer to fall
Harvest: August
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, YT, NT, NU
Other Names: crakeberry, curlewberry, heathberry, northern crowberry