Mortiño (<i>Vaccinium floribundum</i> Kunth): An Underutilized Superplant from the Andes

Abstract

Mortiño is a member of the Ericaceae family native to the Andes that has been used by local communities for centuries. This species has shown potential in the areas of medicine, agronomy, and green technology. We used a multidisciplinary approach to review aspects related to the ecology, horticulture, composition and potential biotechnological applications of mortiño. As interest in this species grows, care must be taken to identify opportunities that justify its sustainable use while emphasizing the development of local communities. Mapping the wide variety of potential uses and the current state of conservation and utilization of this berry will help researchers to better target mortiño’s potential.

Keywords

• ecology
• genetic diversity
• domestication attempts
• polyphenols
• anthocyanins
• medicinal plant