Purple-Flowering Raspberry

(Rubus odoratus)

Purple-Flowering Raspberry (Rubus odoratus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Rubus odoratus, commonly known as Purple-flowering Raspberry, is a deciduous subshrub native to open woodlands and forest edges in the Eastern United States and Eastern Canada. It can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) tall and is notable for its perennial stems, which are not biennial like many other species in the genus. This plant is also thornless, unlike most of its relatives. The flowers are showy, 3–5 cm (1.2–2 inches) in diameter, with five magenta or occasionally white petals, blooming from early spring to early fall. The red edible fruit matures in late summer to early autumn, resembling a large, flat raspberry with many drupelets, and has a unique fuzzy texture.

Purple-flowering Raspberry is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its attractive, long-lasting flowers and its ability to attract pollinators. It is used in garden borders, naturalized areas, and as a wildlife-friendly plant. It thrives in partial shade but can also tolerate full sun, preferring rich, slightly acidic soil with consistent moisture. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can spread aggressively if not managed, potentially becoming a nuisance in a garden setting. It is not commonly associated with serious diseases or pests, but powdery mildew and raspberry cane borer can sometimes be problems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 6-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

native to open woodlands and forest edges in the Eastern United States and Eastern Canada

Other Names

Common Names: Thimbleberry, Flowering Raspberry, Purple-Flowering Raspberry, Rosen-Brombær, Zimt-Himbeere, Tuoksuvatukka, Ronce Odorante, Framboisier Du Canada, Rosebær, Roodbloeiende Framboos, Rosenhallon

Scientific Names: , Rubus odoratus, Rubacer odoratum, Rubus odoratus var. malachophyllus, Rubus odoratus var. odoratus, Rubus odoratus f. albiflorus, Bossekia odorata, Rubus glandulifolius, Rubus grandifolius, Rubus odoratus f. albus

GBIF Accepted Name: Rubus odoratus L.