California Blackberry
Rubus macropetalus

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

Rubus macropetalus is a deciduous Shrub. 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

Where it is found

Field banks and disturbed areas below 1300 metres in California.

Western N. America - British Columbia to California.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Fruit - raw or cooked. It can also be dried for later use. The fresh or dried leaves can be used to make a tea.

Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.

Medicine

Rating: 1

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

Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.

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. Sometimes cultivated for its edible fruit, there are some named forms. 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;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

R. ursinus macropetalus. (Douglas. ex Hook.)Taylor.&MacBryde.