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Description
Rubus Argutus, commonly known as the sawtooth blackberry, is a native American plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 6 feet tall and spreads up to 10 feet wide. The plant has thorny canes that can be used to make baskets and other crafts. Rubus Argutus produces white flowers in the spring that turn into edible blackberries in the summer. The fruit is sweet and juicy, making it a popular choice for jams, jellies, and pies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
Appearance
Rubus Argutus has green leaves that are palmately compound with 3 to 5 leaflets. The leaflets are serrated and have a sawtooth-like appearance, which is where the plant gets its common name. The canes are green and thorny, with a reddish-brown bark. The plant produces white flowers in the spring that are about 1 inch in diameter. The fruit is a blackberry that is about 1/2 inch in diameter and has a sweet and juicy taste.
Care Guide
Rubus Argutus prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it does best in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. The plant needs regular watering during the growing season, but it can tolerate some drought once established. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased wood and to shape the plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rubus Argutus is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, cane borers, and powdery mildew. Spider mites and aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Cane borers can be prevented by removing and destroying any infested canes. Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Rubus Argutus is native to North America, where it can be found growing in wooded areas, along roadsides, and in fields. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure but can tolerate some shade. The plant is adaptable to a wide range of soil types but does best in slightly acidic soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rubus Argutus a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Rubus Argutus is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for, making it a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: How often should Rubus Argutus be watered?
A: Rubus Argutus needs regular watering during the growing season, but it can tolerate some drought once established. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can Rubus Argutus be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Rubus Argutus can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s spreading growth habit. Use a well-draining soil mix and provide regular watering and fertilization.
Q: When is the best time to harvest Rubus Argutus berries?
A: Rubus Argutus berries are ready to harvest in the summer when they turn dark purple or black and are soft to the touch.
Related Plants
- Rubus fruticosus (blackberry)
- Rubus allegheniensis (Allegheny blackberry)
- Rubus laciniatus (cutleaf evergreen blackberry)
- Rubus ursinus (California blackberry)
References
- University of Connecticut Plant Database. (n.d.). Rubus argutus. Retrieved from https://hort.uconn.edu/detail.php?pid=463
- Pennsylvania State University Extension. (n.d.). Sawtooth blackberry (Rubus argutus). Retrieved from https://extension.psu.edu/sawtooth-blackberry-rubus-argutus
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Rubus argutus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287417
