Alleghany Blackberry, Graves' blackberry

Rubus allegheniensis

Physical Characteristics

Rubus allegheniensis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Apomictic (reproduce by seeds formed without sexual fusion). The plant is self-fertile. 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.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Ontario, New York, Virginia and North Carolina.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Shoots Stem Edible Uses: Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use[34, 101, 161, 257]. A pleasant sweet and somewhat spicy flavour[3, 159, 171, 183]. The fruit is about 12mm in diameter[200] and can be 3cm long[235]. Young shoots - raw. They are harvested in the spring, peeled and used in salads[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antihaemorrhoidal Antirheumatic Astringent Diuretic Ophthalmic Stimulant TB Tonic Urinary The roots are antihaemorrhoidal, antirheumatic, astringent, stimulant and tonic. An infusion can be used in the treatment of stomach complaints, diarrhoea, piles, coughs and colds, tuberculosis and rheumatism. The infusion has also been used by women threatened with a miscarriage. The root can be chewed to treat a coated tongue. An infusion of the root has been used as a wash for sore eyes. The leaves are astringent. An infusion can be used in the treatment of diarrhoea. An infusion of the bark has been used in the treatment of urinary problems. A decoction of the stems has been used as a diuretic.

Known Hazards

None known