The History of Raspberries

Many species of raspberries are native to Europe and northern Asia; others are native to temperate parts of North America. Archeological evidence suggests that humans have been eating raspberries since the Paleolithic Era. The Romans cultivated raspberries beginning around the 4th century AD; we know this from the writings of the Roman agricultural writer, Palladius. They were likely the first in Europe to do so. Raspberries were consumed in many parts of Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly by the wealthy, and were also used for pigments (they appear in early Christian artwork as symbols of kindness) and as medicine. They were first cultivated in England in the 13th century at the encouragement of King Edward I. Native Americans also have a long history of using raspberries as medicine. Interestingly, there are over 200 varieties of raspberries, including many summer-ripening types such as 'Glen Ample' and 'Malling Minerva.’ Raspberries are part of the rose family and fittingly get their name from the mid-15th century word raspise, which referred to a sweet, rose-colored wine. Today, raspberries are consumed in many parts of the world for their sweet yet tart flavor and health benefits.