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Description
Rubus Hispidus, also known as the swamp dewberry or bristly dewberry, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including swamps, bogs, wet meadows, and open woods. The plant has a trailing habit and can grow up to 3 feet long. Its stems are covered in small hairs and have thorns that are curved backward. The leaves are green and have three to five leaflets that are toothed and slightly hairy. Rubus Hispidus produces small, white or pink flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers are followed by edible, black berries that ripen in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
Appearance
Rubus Hispidus has a distinctive appearance that makes it easy to identify. The plant has trailing stems that can grow up to 3 feet long. The stems are covered in small hairs and have thorns that are curved backward. The leaves are green and have three to five leaflets that are toothed and slightly hairy. The flowers are small, white or pink, and bloom from May to July. They are followed by edible, black berries that ripen in late summer. Rubus Hispidus is a hardy plant that can survive in a wide range of climates and soil conditions.
Care Guide
Rubus Hispidus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:- Water: Rubus Hispidus prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water your plant regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Rubus Hispidus does not require much fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to help promote growth.- Soil: Rubus Hispidus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can amend your soil with compost or other organic matter to improve its quality.- Sunlight: Rubus Hispidus prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun. If you live in a hot climate, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.- Hardiness Zones: Rubus Hispidus is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rubus Hispidus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to some common problems, including:- Cane blight: This disease causes the stems to turn brown and die. To prevent cane blight, remove any infected stems and prune your plant regularly to improve air circulation.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To control spider mites, rinse your plant with water or apply an insecticidal soap.- Japanese beetles: These insects can skeletonize the leaves of your plant. To control Japanese beetles, handpick them off your plant or apply a pesticide.
Habitat
Rubus Hispidus is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including swamps, bogs, wet meadows, and open woods. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade but can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rubus Hispidus invasive?
A: Rubus Hispidus is not considered invasive, but it can spread quickly and should be monitored in garden settings.
Q: Can Rubus Hispidus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Rubus Hispidus can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s trailing habit.
Q: Are the berries of Rubus Hispidus edible?
A: Yes, the berries of Rubus Hispidus are edible and can be used to make jams, jellies, and pies.
Q: Does Rubus Hispidus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Rubus Hispidus produces small, white or pink flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Rubus Hispidus:- Rubus occidentalis (black raspberry)- Rubus idaeus (red raspberry)- Rubus fruticosus (blackberry)- Rubus phoenicolasius (wineberry)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. “Rubus hispidus.” Accessed November 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283063.- United States Department of Agriculture. “Rubus hispidus L.” Accessed November 22, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=RUHI.
