Atibulnak,
Rubus pectinellus
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
Rubus pectinellus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to August. 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.
Height (m): 0.2
Where it is found
Woods, C. and S. Japan. Montane forests and valleys, riverbanks at elevations of 700 - 3000 metres in southern China.
E. Asia - China, Japan.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, China, Japan, Pacific, Philippines, SE Asia, Taiwan, Tibet,
How it is used
Food
Rating: 3
Fruit - raw or cooked. A fine flavour and good quality. The red fruit is 10 - 15mm in diameter.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 1
A purple to dull blue dye is obtained from the fruit.
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
How it is grown
Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil in sun or semi-shade. Closely related to R. calycinus. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.
Propagating it: 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.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
Its other names
Local names
Jiaoxumu,