Rubus setchuenensis
Bur.&Franch.
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) ed_shaw, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
iNaturalist· cc-by-nc
(c) ed_shaw, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
Description
Rubus setchuenensis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3.5 m (11ft 6in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Edible Uses
Fruit - raw or cooked. Well-flavoured. The black fruit is about 10mm in diameter.
Distribution
E. Asia - W. China.
Where It Grows
TEMPERATE ASIA: China (Guangxi Zhuangzu Zizhiqu, Guizhou Sheng, Hubei Sheng, Hunan Sheng, Sichuan Sheng, Yunnan Sheng)
Cultivation
Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil in sun or semi-shade. The stems are thornless. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.
Propagation
Seed - requires stratification and is best sown in early autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed requires one month stratification at about 3°c and is best sown as early as possible in the year. Prick out the seedlings when they are large enough to handle and grow on in a cold frame. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Tip layering in July. Plant out in autumn. Division in early spring or just before leaf-fall in the autumn.
Other Uses
DyeA purple to dull blue dye is obtained from the fruit.
