Rubus rhamnifolius
Weihe & Nees
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GBIF
gbif· cc-by-sa
GBIF
gbif· cc-by-sa
GBIF
Summary
Rubus rhamnifolius is a deciduous shrub that is hermaphroditic but not self-fertile, requiring insect pollination. It grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils with good drainage and tolerates mildly acidic to mildly alkaline pH. The plant thrives in semi-shade such as light woodland or full sun, and prefers moist soil conditions.
Description
Rubus rhamnifolius is a deciduous shrub that is hermaphroditic but not self-fertile, requiring insect pollination. It grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils with good drainage and tolerates mildly acidic to mildly alkaline pH. The plant thrives in semi-shade such as light woodland or full sun, and prefers moist soil conditions.
Edible Uses
The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked.
Medicinal Uses
None known.
Distribution
It is a temperate plant.
Where It Grows
Belgium, Europe, Germany,
Cultivation
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. This species has imperfect pollen. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil in sun or semi-shade. 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 needs one month of stratification at about 3°c and should be sown as early as possible in the year. 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 or August in a frame. Tip layering can be done in July, with plants set out in autumn. Division is possible in early spring or just before leaf-fall in autumn.
Other Uses
A purple to dull blue dye is obtained from the fruit.
Notes
There are about 250 Rubus species.
Dangerous Lookalikes
This plant can be confused with the following toxic species. Always verify identification carefully before consuming any wild plant.
Red Baneberry
Actaea rubra
Walter Siegmund (talk)
Rubus rhamnifolius
Rubus rhamnifolius
GBIF
Red Baneberry: Short herbaceous plant (no thorns), berries on thick red stems, each berry has a single seed, compound sharply-toothed leaves.
Rubus rhamnifolius: Thorny woody canes (brambles), aggregate berry made of many drupelets, berries pull easily from receptacle.
References (2)
- Plants for a Future database, The Field, Penpol, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0NG, UK. http://www.scs.leeds.ac.uk/pfaf/
- Rubi Germanici 22, t. 6. 1822
