Rubus australis
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
Rubus australis is an evergreen Climber. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to July. 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
Forest fringes. When growing in an open sunny position it forms a flowerless and leafless plant.
New Zealand.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Fruit - raw or cooked. Juicy. The yellow fruits have an outstanding flavour. The sap can be extracted and used as a drink.
Sap: usually of trees and usually but not always used as a drink.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 1
A purple to dull blue dye is obtained from the fruit.
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent
How it is grown
Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil in sun or semi-shade. This species is not very hardy in Britain but it tolerates light frosts and succeeds outdoors in the mildest parts of the country. The flowers have a sweet perfume. 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; Shady Edge;
Habit: Climber
Hardiness: 8-11
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist