Rubus species - .
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Hybrid Berries
gbif· cc-by-nc
Samantha Heller
gbif· cc-by-nc
Madrone Ruggiero
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Archer Lamason
Description
Rubus species is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from May to September, and the seeds ripen from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects, Apomictic (reproduce by seeds formed without sexual fusion). The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 and can grow in very acid and very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.
Edible Uses
Fruit - raw or cooked.
Distribution
A range of garden hybrids.
Where It Grows
Coming Soon
Cultivation
Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil. Succeeds in acid and calcareous soils. Succeeds in sun or semi-shade, though it fruits less well in the shade. Established plants are drought resistant. Hardy to about -15°c. This species has biennial stems, it produces a number of new stems each year from the perennial rootstock, these stems fruit in their second year and then die. 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. This plant is a cultivar and will not breed true from seed. 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. Plant them out direct into their permanent positions.
