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Description
Rubus Formosensis, commonly known as the Taiwanese bramble, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Taiwan and can be found in the central and southern parts of the island. The plant is a perennial, producing new growth each year from woody stems that can reach up to 3 meters in length. The leaves of the plant are compound, consisting of 3-5 leaflets with serrated edges. The flowers are white or pink and are followed by dark red to black berries that are edible and sweet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
Appearance
The Taiwanese bramble is a sprawling plant that can grow up to 2 meters in height and 3 meters in length. The stems are thorny and have a reddish-brown color. The leaves are dark green and are made up of 3-5 leaflets with serrated edges. The flowers are white or pink and are around 2 centimeters in diameter. The fruit is a dark red to black berry that is around 1 centimeter in diameter and is covered in tiny hairs.
Care Guide
The Taiwanese bramble prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be planted in an area that receives full sun to partial shade. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Taiwanese bramble is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. Some common pests include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and crown rot. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Taiwanese bramble is native to Taiwan and can be found in the central and southern parts of the island. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and can be found at elevations up to 2,500 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the berries of the Taiwanese bramble be eaten?
A: Yes, the berries are edible and have a sweet flavor.
Q: Is the Taiwanese bramble an invasive species?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive in its native range.
Q: How often should the Taiwanese bramble be fertilized?
A: Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth.
Q: What hardiness zones is the Taiwanese bramble suitable for?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Rubus ellipticus
- Rubus parvifolius
- Rubus taiwanianus
- Rubus ulmifolius
References
- “Rubus Formosensis.” Flora of Taiwan, second edition, vol. 3, 1993, pp. 855-856.
- “Rubus Formosensis.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:738125-1.
- “Rubus Formosensis.” The Plant List, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/rjp-157.
