Nagoon Berry, Arctic raspberry
Rubus stellatus
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
Rubus stellatus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 1. 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): 0.3
Where it is found
Peaty soil, thickets and tundra.
Northern N. America - Alaska to Yukon.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Fruit - raw or cooked.
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. Very closely related to R. arcticus and considered to be no more than a form of that species by many botanists. This plant is smaller than R. arcticus and has smaller fruits.
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. Division in early spring or just before leaf-fall in the autumn.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist