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Description
Rubus Rolfei, also known as the Rolfe’s Bramble, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. Native to China, this plant is commonly found in the Yunnan and Sichuan provinces. It is characterized by its thorny stems and leaves with serrated edges, which are green on top and grayish-white underneath. The plant produces white or pinkish flowers, followed by edible blackberry-like fruits that ripen in late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
| Species | Rolfei |
Appearance
The Rubus Rolfei plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and 1.5 meters wide. Its stems are covered with thorns, which can be up to 2 cm long. The leaves are alternate, compound, and measure up to 20 cm long by 15 cm wide. They have a dark green color on the upper surface and are covered in fine grayish-white hairs on the underside. The flowers are white or pinkish, with five petals, and measure up to 2 cm in diameter. The fruits are blackberry-like, up to 2 cm in diameter, and contain numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Rubus Rolfei can be grown in full sun or partial shade, in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, and benefits from fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 7-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -12°C. Prune the plant in late winter to promote new growth and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rubus Rolfei plant can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and rust. To prevent infestations, keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water and nutrients. Treat any pests or diseases promptly with appropriate insecticides or fungicides.
Habitat
Rubus Rolfei is native to the mountainous regions of China, where it grows in forest clearings and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Rubus Rolfei produce fruits?
A: Rubus Rolfei produces edible blackberry-like fruits that ripen in late summer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rubus Rolfei?
A: Rubus Rolfei is hardy to USDA zones 7-9.
Q: How often should I water my Rubus Rolfei plant?
A: Rubus Rolfei requires regular watering, especially during the growing season.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Rubus Rolfei?
A: Rubus Rolfei can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and rust.
Related Plants
- Rubus fruticosus
- Rubus idaeus
- Rubus spectabilis
- Rubus tricolor
References
- Flora of China. (n.d.). Rubus rolfei Hemsl. & E. H. Wilson. Flora of China. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200011249
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Rubus rolfei. Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d386
