Rubus thibetanus

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

Rubus thibetanus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen in 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): 2.5

Where it is found

Thickets, forest margins, roadsides, slopes, ravines and dry places at elevations of 900 - 2100 metres.

E. Asia - W. China.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Fruit - raw or cooked. The purplish black or dark red fruit is about 16mm 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. Spreads by means of suckers. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.

Propagating it: Seed - requires stratification, is best sown in early autumn in a cold frame. Sow stored seed as early as possible in the year in a cold frame and stratify for a month at 3°c if sowing later than February. 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. Tip layering in July. Plant out in autumn. Division in early spring.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 5-9

Growth: Medium

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. veitchii.