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(Rubus schmidelioides)
Bush Lawyer (Rubus schmidelioides)
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Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Kenraiz | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Rubus schmidelioides, commonly known as Bush Lawyer, is a deciduous shrub native to the understory of temperate rainforests and forest margins in New Zealand. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). The plant is characterized by its scrambling habit, often forming dense thickets, and it features sharp, recurved thorns that can easily catch on clothing or skin. The flowers of Bush Lawyer are small, with cream and white petals, blooming in the spring and are moderately showy. Following flowering, it produces small, red to orange berries that are attractive to birds.
Bush Lawyer is valued for its wildlife support, providing both nectar for pollinators and fruit for birds. It can be used in cultivation for naturalistic plantings, erosion control on banks, or as a barrier plant due to its thorny nature. Gardeners should plant it in a location with full sun to part shade and ensure the soil has medium to fast drainage. While it is not overly demanding in terms of water, consistent moisture will promote healthier growth. Caution should be taken when handling or planting due to its thorns, and it is best placed where it will not be a nuisance to passersby.CC BY-SA 4.0
Bush Lawyer is valued for its wildlife support, providing both nectar for pollinators and fruit for birds. It can be used in cultivation for naturalistic plantings, erosion control on banks, or as a barrier plant due to its thorny nature. Gardeners should plant it in a location with full sun to part shade and ensure the soil has medium to fast drainage. While it is not overly demanding in terms of water, consistent moisture will promote healthier growth. Caution should be taken when handling or planting due to its thorns, and it is best placed where it will not be a nuisance to passersby.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Cream, White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Temperate rainforests and forest margins in New Zealand
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Rubus schmidelioides, Rubus australis var. schmidelioides, Rubus cissoides var. coloratus,
GBIF Accepted Name: Rubus schmidelioides A.Cunn.