Contents
Description
Rubus Ursinus, commonly known as the wild raspberry plant, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is related to other berry-producing plants such as strawberries, blackberries, and roses. The plant is known for its edible, ruby-red raspberries that are enjoyed by humans and wildlife alike.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
Appearance
The Rubus Ursinus is a shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has thorny stems and leaves that are green and lobed. The plant produces white or pink flowers in the spring and early summer, which eventually develop into the red raspberries in the summer and fall. The fruit is small, round, and covered in tiny hairs.
Care Guide
To care for the Rubus Ursinus, you should plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The Rubus Ursinus is hardy in USDA Zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rubus Ursinus is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, powdery mildew, and crown gall. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized. Prune the plant regularly to promote good air circulation and remove any diseased or damaged branches.
Habitat
The Rubus Ursinus is native to the western coast of North America, from British Columbia to California. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and along streams and riverbanks. The plant is an important food source for wildlife, including birds, bears, and small mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Rubus Ursinus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and needs.
Q: How often should the Rubus Ursinus be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is the Rubus Ursinus an invasive species?
A: No, the plant is not considered invasive and is a valuable food source for wildlife.
Q: Can the Rubus Ursinus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in the winter.
Related Plants
- Rubus idaeus (Red Raspberry)
- Rubus occidentalis (Black Raspberry)
- Rubus fruticosus (Blackberry)
- Rosa rugosa (Beach Rose)
References
- “Rubus Ursinus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c795.
- “Rubus Ursinus.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:222645-2.
- “Rubus Ursinus.” United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=RUUR2.
