Northern dewberry (Rubus flagellaris)

Northern dewberry

Also known as: Northern blackberry, Lucretia dewberry, Dewberry

Northern dewberry (Rubus flagellaris) is a perennial shrub related to the rose. Northern dewberry has a fragrant smell and attracts many bees to serve as pollinators. The berries from northern dewberry are edible and commonly made into pies.

Scientific classification

Species

Northern dewberry (Rubus flagellaris)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Harvest Time

20 cm to 30 cm

Plant Height

1.2 m to 1.8 m

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Black, Purple

Fruit Color

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Northern dewberry

Attributes of Northern dewberry

Growth Rate

Northern dewberry' manifests a Rapid growth rate during Spring and Summer, which is evidenced in the quick proliferation of its trailing stems and refined, robust foliage. This speed influences the plant's prolific leaf production and an increase in ground cover, resulting in sprawling patches. Seasonal growth variations exist, yet its manifestation is most striking during these active growing seasons.

Distribution of Northern dewberry

Distribution Map

Northern dewberry is primarily native to North America, flourishing in diverse habitats within this extensive region. Over time, it has been introduced to other continents, including South America, Africa, and Oceania, where it continues to propagate across different ecosystems.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry fields, openings and borders of thickets

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

In addition to providing tasty berries, northern dewberry is a decorative creeping vine that can be grown as ground cover in a variety of gardens. Its white spring blooms add decoration to cottage or informal gardens, while the nectar in its flowers draw bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to wildlife or pollinator gardens.

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Quickly Identify Northern dewberry

Trailing woody stems up to 15 feet (4.57 meters) long, rarely elevating above ground.

White flowers in corymbs with star-like appearance, 1-1.25 inches (2.5-3.2 cm) across.

Deep purple-black drupes with tart-sweet flavor, reaching 1 inch (2.54 cm) in length.

Compound trifoliate leaves with serrated edges and pale undersides, up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) across.

Slender stems with hooked prickles, maturing from green to brown, about 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter.

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Care Guide for Northern dewberry

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Northern dewberry requires moderate watering, ideally every 2-3 weeks, and thrives in balanced humidity. Originating from areas with consistent rainfall, it loses leaves during dry spells as an adaptation to conserve moisture. This makes it well-suited for outdoor environments.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, northern dewberry requires a balanced fertilizer in spring, shifting to high nitrogen pre-flowering. Use a 10-10-10 formula monthly, halving in colder months. Adjust to a 2-1-1 ratio every 2-3 weeks before flowering. Start with lower concentrations to prevent over-fertilization.

Pruning: Northern dewberry thrives with strategic pruning during dormancy in early to late winter. Key techniques include removing dead canes, cutting back older ones for new growth, and thinning tangled stems. This process enhances fruit quality, reduces disease risk, and promotes overall plant health and productivity.

Propagation: Northern dewberry propagates best using cuttings from healthy, mature shoots. Maintain moisture without overwatering and use well-draining soil to enhance root development. Indirect light is recommended during initial rooting to ensure successful establishment prior to transplanting.

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Images of Northern dewberry

Attributes of Northern dewberry

Distribution of Northern dewberry

Culture

Quickly Identify Northern dewberry

Care Guide for Northern dewberry

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