Highbush Blackberry, Sawtooth blackberry

Rubus argutus

Physical Characteristics

Rubus argutus is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). 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.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Massachusetts to Virginia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[105, 142, 171, 257]. Variable in size and quality but generally with rather large and juicy drupelets[183]. The pulpy fruit is up to 25mm long[235].

Medicinal Uses

Antihaemorrhoidal Antirheumatic Astringent Stimulant Tonic The roots are antihaemorrhoidal, antirheumatic, astringent, stimulant and tonic[257]. An infusion can be used in the treatment of venereal disease and as a wash in the treatment of piles[257]. An infusion of the roots or leaves can be used in the treatment of diarrhoea and rheumatism[257].

Known Hazards

None known