Contents
Description
Rubus Reflexus, commonly known as Himalayan Blackberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to Asia but has spread to other parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Australia. This fast-growing plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and has thorny canes that can reach up to 10 meters long. It produces white or pinkish flowers in the summer and black, juicy, and sweet berries in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
Appearance
The leaves of Rubus Reflexus are alternate, compound, and have serrated edges. They can be up to 15 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide. The flowers are 2 to 3 centimeters in diameter and have five petals. The fruit, which is a cluster of drupelets, is black, shiny, and about 1 to 2 centimeters long. The thorny canes can grow up to 10 meters long and have a greenish-brown color.
Care Guide
Rubus Reflexus thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It requires full sun to produce abundant fruit. When it comes to watering, it is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Rubus Reflexus is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rubus Reflexus is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites
- Aphids
- Cane borers
- Anthracnose
- Powdery mildew
- Verticillium wilt
To prevent these problems, it is important to practice good sanitation and remove any infected or damaged canes promptly. Applying fungicides and insecticides may also be necessary.
Habitat
Rubus Reflexus prefers to grow in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and along streams. It can also be found in forests and woodlands. It is an invasive species in some parts of the world, including North America, where it can outcompete native plants and disrupt ecosystems.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rubus Reflexus be grown in containers?
A: While Rubus Reflexus can be grown in containers, it is not recommended as the plant can become quite large and difficult to manage.
Q: How often should Rubus Reflexus be fertilized?
A: Rubus Reflexus should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Rubus Reflexus toxic to humans?
A: The fruit of Rubus Reflexus is safe for human consumption, but the thorns on the canes can cause injury.
Q: How do I prune Rubus Reflexus?
A: Prune Rubus Reflexus in the late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead or diseased canes and thin out the remaining ones to promote better air circulation.
Related Plants
- Rubus Fruticosus
- Rubus Idaeus
- Rubus Occidentalis
- Rubus Ursinus
References
- Bugwood.org. (n.d.). Rubus fruticosus. Retrieved from https://www.invasive.org/browse/subinfo.cfm?sub=3013
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Rubus reflexus. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281343&isprofile=0&
- RHS. (n.d.). Rubus reflexus. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15446/Rubus-reflexus/Details
