European Dewberry

(Rubus caesius)

European Dewberry (Rubus caesius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Rubus caesius, commonly known as European dewberry, is a deciduous, perennial shrub native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, forest edges, and scrub areas across Europe and Asia. It has also naturalized in parts of Argentina, Canada, and the United States. This member of the rose family typically grows up to 7 feet tall with arching, biennial stems that can root at the tips. The leaves are trifoliate with bluish-grey hues. European dewberry produces white flowers in late spring to early summer, which are followed by edible black, fleshy drupes resembling blackberries in late summer to autumn.

The fruit of Rubus caesius is appreciated for its sweet taste and can be used in jellies, desserts, and as a flavoring. The plant is also valued for its wildlife benefits, as it provides food for birds and other animals. In cultivation, it can be used for naturalistic plantings, as a ground cover, or in wildlife gardens. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is tolerant of a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. European dewberry requires moderate water and can spread via rooting stem tips, which should be considered when planting to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 1.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, forest edges, and scrub areas across Europe and Asia

Other Names

Common Names: European Dewberry, Blue Bramble, Kratzbeere

Scientific Names: , Rubus caesius, Rubus caeruleus, Rubus caesius, Rubus caesius f. aquaticus, Rubus caesius f. armata, Rubus caesius f. arvalis, Rubus caesius f. cinerascens, Rubus caesius f. echinatus, Rubus caesius f. eucaesius

GBIF Accepted Name: