The Whortleberry is the Devon name given to the wild blueberries that grow on the Moors in Devon and the West Country.
The Exmoor whortleberry is also known as the bilberry or the European blueberry, is a small, low-growing shrub that is commonly found in heathlands, moors, and other acidic soils throughout Europe. It is a popular wild fruit that has long been used for its medicinal properties.
Exmoor whortleberries are hardy shrubs that can grow up to 30 cm in height and produce bright green leaves that turn glossy, deep green in maturity. The flowers are pinkish-red and bloom in late spring to early summer, while the fruit develops from late summer to early autumn. Exmoor whortleberries are characterized by their purple-blue edible berries, which are approximately the size of small marbles and are sweet and juicy.
They are often used in jams, pies, and other baked goods, as well as in various traditional folk remedies for ailments such as diarrhea, fatigue, and poor vision. The Exmoor whortleberry has many nutritional benefits, it is rich in antioxidants and contains high levels of vitamin C and dietary fiber.
Studies have also shown that consuming these berries can help in weight management, reduce inflammation, and improve cognitive function. Despite being a nutritious fruit with many health benefits, the Exmoor whortleberry is not widely grown commercially.
It is mainly harvested from the wild, which can pose problems due to the decline of its natural habitat across Europe. Conservation efforts are underway to provide suitable habitats for the Exmoor whortleberry in order to maintain its populations in the wild. Cultivation of the shrub is also being explored as a potential commercial crop in some regions.
They have been harvested on Exmoor for centuries and were once a source of income for the children in the area who would pick them for some extra cash during the summer months.
Nowadays the berry is harder to come by but can usually be found in the more isolated parts of Exmoor. Dunkery Beacon and Porlock Hill are a couple of areas where you may find the Whortleberries, they are ready to pick between the end of July and August.
The Exmoor whortleberry is not only a delicious wild fruit but also a valuable medicinal plant with many benefits for human health. Its unique flavor and nutritional content make it a valuable addition to various food items, while its medicinal properties have been utilized for centuries. Therefore, it is essential to protect its natural habitat and promote cultivation for the long-term sustainability of the plant.
If you don’t fancy trudging to the more remote parts of Exmoor with a basket in hand then there are a few other ways to enjoy the Whortleberry without the hard work.
Brendon Hill Crafts Whortleberry Jam
Winner of a GOLD Award at the Great Taste Awards 2011 and GOLD at the 2014 Awards – the judges comments “great colour to this product and a good heavy set, the initial fruit flavours come through good and clean. We like the whole berries in the jam and feel the product is very well made. The tartness of the berries offset the sweetness of the jam”
Brendon Hill Craft Award winning preserves are hand-made, hand-labelled, hand-delivered in North Devon. All their preserves have been cooked in small pans producing between 20 and 25 jars at a time. This family run business was founded 30 years ago as a cottage industry on the edge of Exmoor but more recently has relocated to a purpose built kitchen on the edge of Barnstaple in North Devon. Winners of many Gold, Silver and Bronze awards from The Taste of the West and the Great Taste Guild of Fine Foods.
Waterhouse Fayre Whortleberry Jam
Waterhouse Fayre began when Ann Stallard began making homemade jam in her kitchen in 2004. Since then the company has grown considerably, so much so that they have relocated from South Molton to the outskirts of Tiverton where custom facilities were added to the family home. Their products mix traditional flavours with modern twists, creating unqiue and tasty jams and chutneys.
The Whortleberry Tearoom
Based in the village of Porlock is the Whortleberry tea room and is the perfect place for refreshment in the wonderful Exmoor village of Porlock.Whether it be for a full cooked breakfast, light lunch, or sumptuous traditional Cream Tea, complete with local whortleberry jam.
Exmoor Blueberries
Exmoor Blueberries are an organic blueberry farm nestled above the beautiful village of Exford on beautiful Exmoor. They have 12 acres of mature blueberry plants which are maintained by nature, pollinated by bumblebees and protected from the wind by long grasses. The pure fresh air and water give their blueberries a beautiful taste, you can come and see for yourself and pick your own.
Picking your own blueberries is a wonderful experience and they taste much better straight from the bush. It’s a fantastic way to teach children where food really comes from, and they will love exploring the rows of bushes.
