Swamp dewberry (Rubus hispidus)

Swamp dewberry

Also known as: Bristly dewberry, Running swamp blackberry, Dewberry

Swamp dewberry (Rubus hispidus) is a perennial woody vine with trailing stems found in woodlands meadows and fields. Swamp dewberry blooms white flowers from spring to summer and attracts bees flies and butterflies. The fruits it produces are similar to black berries but have a sour taste. Birds turtles mice and squirrels feed on the berries. It grows in full sun to partial shade.

Scientific classification

Species

Swamp dewberry (Rubus hispidus)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

20 cm

Plant Height

White

Flower Color

Green, Red, Burgundy

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Swamp dewberry

Attributes of Swamp dewberry

Growth Rate

At a moderate growth rate in spring, swamp dewberry sets in vibrant foliage and crawling stems. This speed ensures balanced energy distribution, allowing adequate root establishment and sturdy stem growth. The focused development in spring leads to robust plant constitution and hardiness in differing conditions.

Culture

Symbolism

Lowliness, remorse

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Swamp dewberry

Low-growing vine with sprawling stems reaching up to 8 feet (2.4 meters).

Compound leaves with toothed edges and small, thorny structures for identification.

White flowers with 5 petals and 5 sepals blooming from April to June.

Distinct fruit color transformation from green to red to dark purple upon ripeness.

Angular to round stems with bristly texture, varying in color from light green to reddish.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Swamp dewberry

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Swamp dewberry thrives in wet, marshy environments with high humidity. It requires watering every three weeks and benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture, simulating its natural habitat. This adaptation makes it well-suited for boggy areas and damp woodlands.

Fertilize: For swamp dewberry, balanced fertilizers enhance growth and fruit yield, while high nitrogen types promote leafy growth. Apply during early spring at one-month intervals, adjusting based on soil tests. Use lower amounts in winter and slow-release formulas for sustained nutrition, ensuring thorough watering after application.

Pruning: Swamp dewberry is a perennial shrub with trailing stems and white flowers. Prune in early spring to remove weak canes, encourage growth, and manage size. Regular pruning enhances air circulation, prevents disease, and boosts fruit production by cutting above buds for healthy regrowth.

Propagation: Swamp dewberry is a resilient species that thrives in various conditions. Propagation by cuttings is effective; ensure healthy stems, use rooting hormone, and provide well-draining soil. Regular watering, while avoiding waterlogging, promotes strong roots. Once established, swamp dewberry spreads easily through runners with little care.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free