American Dewberry, Smooth blackberry

Rubus canadensis

Physical Characteristics

Rubus canadensis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Apomictic (reproduce by seeds formed without sexual fusion). 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

North-eastern N. America - Newfoundland to Michigan and North Carolina.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked in pies, jams etc[2, 3, 43, 105, 183]. Sweet, juicy and richly flavoured, it is generally preferred to most other species of blackberries[2, 183]. The fruit can be pressed into cakes and then dried for later use[257]. The fruit can be up to 25mm long[235].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Dysentery The stems and the fruit have been used in the treatment of dysentery. A decoction of the root has been used in the treatment of dysentery.

Known Hazards

None known