Rubus trivialis, commonly known as Southern Dewberry, is a perennial herb native to open woodlands, thickets, and clearings across the southern United States and northern Mexico. It is a member of the rose family and is characterized by its trailing, thorny stems that can reach up to 4 feet in length. Southern Dewberry typically grows to a height of 1 foot with a spread that can be several feet wide due to its sprawling habit. From March to April, it produces small, white, five-petaled flowers that are moderately showy, followed by edible blackberries that ripen in late spring to early summer.

Southern Dewberry is valued for its edible fruit, which can be used in jellies, pies, and other culinary applications. It is also appreciated for its wildlife value, as the berries provide food for birds and other animals. In cultivation, it can be used as a ground cover or for naturalizing in wild gardens. It prefers full sun to part shade and requires sandy, well-drained soils. While it is drought-tolerant once established, regular watering will encourage more abundant fruit production. Gardeners should be aware that the plant’s thorns can make it difficult to handle, and it may require regular pruning to keep it in bounds. Additionally, it can become invasive outside its native range, so it is important to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0