Rubus macropetalus

Douglas ex Hook.

California blackberry

Rosaceae Edible: Fruit 122 iNaturalist observations

Has a deadly poisonous lookalike — see comparison below

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Summary

A deciduous shrub with hermaphrodite flowers pollinated by insects. Tolerates light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with a preference for well-drained conditions. Grows in mildly acidic, neutral, or mildly alkaline soils. Suitable for semi-shade in light woodland or full sun, and prefers consistently moist soil.

Description

Edible Uses

The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked, and can also be dried for later use. Both fresh and dried leaves can be used to make a tea.

Medicinal Uses

An infusion of the leaves has been used in the treatment of stomach complaints.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

North America, USA,

Cultivation

Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil in sun or semi-shade. Sometimes cultivated for its edible fruit, there are some named forms. 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 should be sown as early in the year as possible. Prick out seedlings when large enough to handle and grow on in a cold frame, then plant out into permanent positions in late spring of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood can be taken in July/August in a frame. Tip layering in July, planting out in autumn. Division can be done in early spring or just before leaf-fall in autumn.