Contents
Description
Rubus Fruticosus Adrienne, commonly known as Adrienne blackberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a thornless variety of blackberry that is prized for its sweet, juicy, and flavorful fruits. The plant grows up to 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide with an upright growth habit. It has a compact and bushy form with arching canes that produce white or pink flowers in late spring to early summer. The fruits are ready for harvest in mid-summer and are large, shiny, and deep black in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
Appearance
Adrienne blackberry is a thornless shrub that has an upright and bushy form. It can grow up to 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide with arching canes that are green in color. The leaves are compound with 3-5 leaflets that are ovate and serrated. They are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The flowers are white or pink in color and are borne in clusters of 5-6. The fruits are large, shiny, and deep black in color with a sweet and juicy flavor.
Care Guide
Adrienne blackberry requires full sun exposure and well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season and mulched to retain moisture. Fertilization should be done in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Adrienne blackberry is prone to several pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, powdery mildew, and cane blight. Spider mites and aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Cane blight can be controlled by pruning infected canes and destroying them.
Habitat
Adrienne blackberry is native to North America and is commonly found in hedgerows, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can be grown in a variety of climates, but is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Adrienne blackberry be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Adrienne blackberry can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant and provide adequate drainage.
Q: How often should Adrienne blackberry be pruned?
A: Adrienne blackberry should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The canes should be cut back to about 3-4 feet to promote new growth and increase fruit production.
Q: How long does it take for Adrienne blackberry to mature?
A: Adrienne blackberry typically takes 2-3 years to mature and produce fruit.
Q: How should Adrienne blackberry be harvested?
A: Adrienne blackberry should be harvested when the fruits are deep black in color and easily detach from the plant. They should be handled gently to prevent bruising and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Related Plants
- Rubus fruticosus ‘Chester’
- Rubus fruticosus ‘Thornless Evergreen’
- Rubus idaeus ‘Heritage’
- Rubus idaeus ‘Malling Jewel’
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Rubus fruticosus.
- RHS. (n.d.). Rubus fruticosus Adrienne.
