Rubus ichangensis
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
Rubus ichangensis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. 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
Thickets and ravines to 1800 metres. Slopes, fallow fields, dense forests in valleys and thickets at elevations of 800 - 2500 metres.
E. Asia - C. and W. China.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 3
Fruit - raw or cooked. Small, red, sweet and well flavoured. The red fruit is 6 - 8mm in diameter.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The root is ised in medicine. We have no further information, but the root is a good source of tannins and so is likely to be used as an astringent.
Astringent: Produces contraction in living tissue, reducing the flow of secretions and discharges of blood, mucus, diarrhoea etc.
Other
Rating: 2
A purple to dull blue dye is obtained from the fruit. Tannin is extracted from the roots and stems.
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
Tannin: An astringent substance obtaied from plants, it is used medicinally, as a dye and mordant, stabilizer in pesticide etc.
How it is grown
Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil in sun or semi-shade. Plants are not very happy in windy situations, especially if the winds are maritime. The young growth in spring can be damaged by late frosts. 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: Shrub
Hardiness: 6-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist