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Description
Rubus Crataegifolius, commonly known as hawthorn-leaved bramble, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This deciduous shrub is native to Asia, particularly in China, Korea, and Japan. It grows up to 1.5 meters in height and has arching stems with prickles. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and resemble hawthorn leaves, hence the name. The plant has creamy white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, followed by edible fruits that are red to purple-black when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rubus |
Appearance
Rubus Crataegifolius has arching stems that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The stems have prickles that can be painful when touched. The leaves are alternate, simple, and resemble hawthorn leaves, with a serrated edge and a glossy dark green color. The plant has creamy white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, followed by edible fruits that are red to purple-black when ripe. The fruits are juicy and have a tart flavor.
Care Guide
To care for Rubus Crataegifolius, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.Water: This plant needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Rubus Crataegifolius benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor fruit production.Hardiness Zones: Rubus Crataegifolius is hardy in zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rubus Crataegifolius is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, cane borers, and root rot. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing it with proper care, such as regular watering and fertilization. If pests or diseases do occur, they can be treated with insecticides or fungicides.
Habitat
Rubus Crataegifolius is native to Asia, particularly in China, Korea, and Japan. It thrives in temperate climates and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant can be found in wooded areas, along stream banks, and in other areas with moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rubus Crataegifolius grow in containers?
A: Yes, Rubus Crataegifolius can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and allow for proper drainage.
Q: When is the best time to prune Rubus Crataegifolius?
A: The best time to prune Rubus Crataegifolius is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: Can Rubus Crataegifolius be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Rubus Crataegifolius can be propagated by cuttings taken in late summer or early fall. The cuttings should be about 15 cm long and should be planted in well-draining soil.
Q: Is Rubus Crataegifolius a good plant for wildlife?
A: Yes, Rubus Crataegifolius provides food and shelter for various wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Rubus Crataegifolius:
- Rubus idaeus (red raspberry)
- Rubus fruticosus (blackberry)
- Rubus occidentalis (black raspberry)
- Rubus phoenicolasius (wineberry)
References
- “Rubus crataegifolius.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b317>.
- “Rubus crataegifolius.” Plant Finder. Accessed 22 July 2021. <https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/4014/hawthorn-leaved-bramble/>.
- “Rubus crataegifolius.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10798/Rubus-crataegifolius/Details>.
