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Description
Rubus Geoides, commonly known as the dwarf raspberry, is a small, creeping shrub that belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. This plant is native to Western North America, where it grows in rocky or gravelly soils in open woods, meadows, and along streams. The dwarf raspberry produces edible, red, cone-shaped fruits that are approximately 1 cm in diameter, which ripen from July to September. The fruits are tart, but can be used for making jams, jellies, and pies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
| Species | Geoides |
Appearance
Rubus Geoides is a low-growing, creeping shrub that reaches a height of 10-30 cm and a spread of 30-60 cm. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring 1-4 cm long and 0.5-2.5 cm wide. The leaflets are green and hairy on the upper surface, and grayish-green and hairy on the lower surface. The flowers are white or pink, and are approximately 1 cm in diameter. The fruits are red and cone-shaped, with a diameter of approximately 1 cm.
Care Guide
Water
Rubus Geoides prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization
Rubus Geoides does not require fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
Rubus Geoides prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
Rubus Geoides prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide the plant with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Rubus Geoides is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rubus Geoides is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
Pests
– Spider mites- Aphids- Thrips- Japanese beetles
Diseases
– Powdery mildew- Rust- Verticillium wilt- Cane blightTo prevent pests and diseases, provide good air circulation, remove infected plant material, and apply an insecticidal soap or fungicide as needed.
Habitat
Rubus Geoides is native to Western North America, where it grows in rocky or gravelly soils in open woods, meadows, and along streams. The plant can also be found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and clearcuts.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rubus Geoides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Rubus Geoides can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and drainage holes are provided.
Q: How often should Rubus Geoides be pruned?
A: Rubus Geoides should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood, and thin out the oldest canes to promote new growth.
Q: Is Rubus Geoides deer-resistant?
A: Rubus Geoides is not deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if they are present in the area.
Q: Can Rubus Geoides be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Rubus Geoides can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a bright, indirect light until they have rooted.
Related Plants
– Rubus parviflorus (thimbleberry)- Rubus spectabilis (salmonberry)- Rubus idaeus (red raspberry)- Rubus ursinus (California blackberry)
References
– “Rubus geoides.” Flora of North America.- “Rubus geoides.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.- “Rubus geoides.” USDA Plants Database.
