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Rubus

Rubus

Rubus calycinoides (3.5 inch pot)

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Rubus

Rubus calycinoides (3.5 inch pot)

Rubus hayata-koidzumii is better known (incorrectly) as Rubus calcinoides.(3.5-inch pot)Common names: Creeping Raspberry, Crinkle-leaf Creeper, Taiwanese Creeping Rubus, Creeping Bramble, and Emerald...

MSRP:

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What Is Rubus calycinoides?

Rubus calycinoides, also known as the creeping raspberry, Yü-shan raspberry, or crinkle-leaf creeper, is a flowering plant in the rose family native to East Asia, from the Himalayas to Myanmar. It is a popular groundcover plant, valued for its attractive foliage, dense growth habit, and tolerance for a wide range of conditions.

Here are some of the key characteristics of Rubus calycinoides:

Evergreen or semi-evergreen foliage: The leaves are small (1-1.5 inches) and deeply lobed, with a crinkled or quilted texture. They are dark green on top and paler or slightly felted underneath. In some climates, the leaves may turn a bronzy-red color in the fall.

White flowers: The flowers are small and white, borne in clusters in late spring or early summer.

Edible fruits: The fruits are small, orange-red berries that ripen in late summer or early fall. They are technically edible, but they are not very flavorful and are generally not considered worth eating.

Creeping growth habit: Rubus calycinoides spreads by stems that root as they touch the ground. It can form a dense mat that is effective at suppressing weeds.

Tolerant of a wide range of conditions: This plant is tolerant of sun or partial shade, moist or dry soil, and even poor soil. It is also deer-resistant.

Rubus calycinoides is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. It is a good choice for groundcovers, slopes, edging, and containers. It can also be used as a spiller in mixed borders.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Rubus calycinoides:

Although it is not generally considered invasive, it can be somewhat aggressive in some climates. It is important to monitor its growth and prune it back if necessary.

The stems have small prickles, so it is best to wear gloves when handling the plant.

It is relatively pest- and disease-resistant.

Overall, Rubus calycinoides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for and provides a variety of benefits to the garden.

How Do I Plant Rubus?

Planting Rubus calycinoides, also known as creeping raspberry, is quite straightforward and rewarding! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

When to Plant:

The best time to plant Rubus is in the spring, after the last frost in your area. This gives it ample time to establish before cold weather arrives.

You can also plant in early fall, but keep an eye on the weather and ensure the roots have time to settle before freezing temperatures hit.

Choosing a Location:

Rubus thrives in full sun to part shade. Consider the amount of sunlight your chosen area receives throughout the day.

It adapts to various soil types but prefers well-drained, loamy soil.

If your soil is clay or heavy, amend it with compost or organic matter to improve drainage.

Planting Process:

Prepare the planting site: Clear any weeds or debris from the planting area. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball of your Rubus plant.

Loosen the soil: Break up any compacted soil at the bottom of the hole to encourage root growth.

Position the plant: Carefully remove the plant from its container and gently loosen the roots around the root ball. Place the plant in the hole at the same depth it was in the container.

Backfill the hole: Fill the hole around the plant with the loosened soil and gently tamp it down to remove air pockets.

Water the plant deeply: Give your Rubus a thorough watering to settle the soil around the roots and moisten the ground.

Aftercare Tips:

Water regularly: Water your Rubus regularly, especially during the first year while it establishes. Once established, it's drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering during dry spells.

Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pruning: Rubus calycinoides grows fast and can spread readily. Prune it back occasionally to maintain its desired shape and keep it from becoming invasive. You can prune stems throughout the year, but heavier pruning is best done in late winter or early spring.

Fertilizer: You don't typically need to fertilize Rubus calycinoides. However, if your soil is poor, you can give it a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.

Additional Tips:

Wear gloves when handling Rubus as its stems have small prickles.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

Rubus calycinoides can be propagated by division or stem cuttings.

By following these simple steps and providing basic care, you can enjoy the beautiful foliage and unique charm of Rubus calycinoides in your garden for years to come!

Remember, your specific climate and soil conditions may influence the optimal planting and care practices. Consider researching local recommendations for further guidance in your area. Happy planting!

What Are The Different Varieties Of Rubus?

The world of Rubus is vast and diverse, with over 1,350 species known to exist! These delicious and beautiful brambles have been cultivated for centuries, resulting in countless varieties within each species. Here's a glimpse into the amazing variety of Rubus:

By Fruit Type:

Raspberries:

Red raspberries: These classic berries are sweet and juicy, with popular varieties like 'Malling Jewel,' 'Autumn Bliss,' and 'Summer Gold.'

Black raspberries: Known for their intense flavor and darker color, popular varieties include 'Jewel,' 'Black Hawk,' and 'Cumberland.'

Yellow raspberries: A unique and sweet option, popular varieties are 'Golden Gourmet,' 'Fallgold,' and 'Amber.'

Blackberries:

European blackberries: Large and juicy, they include varieties like 'Thornless Evergreen,' 'Chester Thornless,' and 'Loch Tay.'

North American blackberries: These tend to be smaller and tangier, with popular varieties like 'Triple Crown,' 'Boysenberry,' and 'Darrow.'

Dewberries:

Trailing dewberries: They have long, creeping vines and sweet berries, with varieties like 'Lucretia,' 'Austin Thornless,' and 'Trailblazer.'

Evergreen dewberries: Bushy plants with year-round foliage and tasty berries, with varieties like 'Black Diamond' and 'Shawnee.'

Other Types:

Cloudberries: Arctic raspberries with delicate, orange-red berries and a unique flavor.

Wineberries: Purple-red berries with a tart and tangy taste.

Thimbleberries: Small, red berries with a sweet and earthy flavor.

By Growth Habit:

Upright canes: These varieties grow tall and require support, like most red and black raspberries.

Trailing canes: They form long, arching canes that need trellising or can be allowed to sprawl, like dewberries and some blackberries.

Groundcovers: These low-growing Rubus species, like the Rubus calycinoides you were interested in, are perfect for edging or suppressing weeds.

By Seasonality:

Summer-bearing: Fruit ripens in mid to late summer.

Fall-bearing: Fruit ripens in late summer and continues until frost.

Everbearing: Produces two crops of fruit, one in early summer and another in fall.

This is just a small sampling of the incredible variety within the Rubus genus. When choosing a variety, consider your desired fruit type, growth habit, climate, and personal preferences. With so many amazing options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect Rubus for your garden!

How Do I Care For Rubus In My Garden?

Taking care of your Rubus varieties in the garden involves providing basic needs and addressing their specific characteristics. Here's a general guide, but remember to adjust based on your chosen species and local conditions:

Sunlight and Soil:

Most Rubus varieties thrive in full sun to partial shade. However, some blackberry varieties tolerate more shade.

Well-drained, fertile soil is ideal. Amend heavy clay soil with compost and organic matter to improve drainage.

Watering:

Water regularly, especially during the first year while your Rubus establishes. Aim for consistent moisture without waterlogging.

Once established, most Rubus are drought-tolerant and only need occasional watering during dry spells. Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry.

Mulching:

Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Choose materials like wood chips, shredded bark, or compost.

Pruning:

Pruning is crucial for maintaining optimal fruit production and shape. The specific technique depends on your Rubus variety:

Upright raspberries: Prune in summer after fruiting by removing spent fruiting canes and selecting strong new canes for next year's crop.

Trailing raspberries and blackberries: Prune in winter or early spring. Tip prune canes to encourage branching and remove any dead or diseased canes.

Everbearing raspberries: Can be pruned lightly after summer fruiting to encourage fall crop, and then more heavily in late winter.

Fertilizing:

Generally, Rubus doesn't require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can be beneficial if your soil is poor.

Additional Tips:

Wear gloves when handling Rubus as many varieties have thorns.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

Control pests and diseases organically if possible. Neem oil, insecticidal soap, and fungicides can be used as needed.

Watch for suckers (new shoots) growing from the base of the plant. Remove them promptly to prevent overcrowding and maintain desired shape.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and specific needs may vary depending on your climate, soil type, and Rubus variety. Consult your local nursery or gardening expert for advice tailored to your specific situation.

With proper care, your Rubus plants will reward you with delicious berries and beautiful foliage for years to come!

Do Rubus Plants Attract Pollinators?

Rubus plants are generally very attractive to pollinators! They offer a variety of benefits that make them valuable food sources and habitats for many different pollinators, including:

Rich in Nectar and Pollen:

Rubus flowers produce abundant nectar and pollen, both of which are vital for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

The nectar is often high in sugar content, making it a particularly enticing meal for bees.

Some species, like the flowering raspberry (Rubus odoratus), are known for their especially fragrant flowers, further attracting pollinators.

Open and Accessible Flowers:

Rubus flowers typically have open and accessible structures, making it easy for pollinators of different sizes and types to reach the nectar and pollen.

The white or pink color of their blossoms is also attractive to many pollinator species.

Blooming Season:

Many Rubus species bloom in mid-spring to early summer, a time when other crops may not be in flower yet. This provides valuable early foraging opportunities for pollinators.

Some varieties, like everbearing raspberries, even offer extended bloom periods, further increasing their appeal to pollinators.

Habitat and Nesting Sites:

The dense foliage and thorny stems of Rubus plants can provide important shelter and nesting sites for pollinators. Bees and butterflies, in particular, can use the foliage and stems for protection from predators and harsh weather.

Some species, like the dewberry, have trailing canes that offer ideal nesting locations for ground-nesting bees.

Diversity of Species:

The large diversity of Rubus species offers a variety of flower shapes, sizes, and bloom times, attracting a wider range of pollinators throughout the season.

Therefore, planting Rubus in your garden or supporting their presence in natural areas can significantly benefit local pollinator populations.

Here are some additional points to consider:

Certain species, like some blackberries, have less showy flowers and may attract fewer pollinators compared to raspberries.

Factors like pesticide use and habitat fragmentation can decrease the abundance and diversity of pollinators visiting Rubus plants.

Planting a variety of Rubus species alongside other pollinator-friendly flowers can create a diverse and thriving ecosystem in your garden.

By choosing to nurture Rubus plants, you can contribute to a healthy and balanced ecosystem by providing vital resources for these vital creatures.

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Rubus?

Rubus plants are susceptible to several common pests and diseases. Here's a rundown of some of the most prevalent ones:

Pests:

Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can stunt plant growth, deform leaves, and transmit viruses. Several species target Rubus, including the raspberry aphid and blackberry aphid.

Japanese beetles: These metallic green beetles feed on flower buds and fruit, causing significant damage.

Borers: Various borer species can tunnel into canes, damaging tissues and weakening the plant.

Spotted wing drosophila: These small fruit flies lay eggs in ripening berries, making them inedible.

Birds: Birds can be a nuisance, especially during fruiting season, pecking at and damaging ripe berries.

Diseases:

Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown, sunken spots on leaves and fruit.

Cane blight: Another fungal disease, it causes wilting and dieback of canes.

Botrytis fruit rot (gray mold): This fungal disease leads to brown, soft rot on ripening fruit.

Mosaic virus: This virus causes leaves to become mottled and deformed, reducing plant vigor and fruit production.

Leaf curl: This virus also causes leaf deformation and reduces fruit quality.

Management Strategies:

Prevention is key: Prioritize healthy planting practices, good sanitation, and choosing resistant varieties when possible.

Organic methods: Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or diatomaceous earth to control pests early on. For fungal diseases, try copper fungicides or neem oil sprays.

Physical barriers: Bird netting can deter birds from feasting on your berries.

Proper pruning: Removing diseased or damaged canes and thinning out thick growth helps improve air circulation and reduce disease spread.

Monitoring and vigilance: Regularly inspect your Rubus plants for signs of pests and diseases, and take action promptly if necessary.

Remember: The specific pests and diseases affecting your Rubus plants will depend on your location, climate, and variety. Research common problems in your area and consult your local nursery or gardening expert for tailored advice on their management.

Don't let these challenges deter you from growing these delicious and rewarding plants. By practicing preventative measures and implementing safe and effective control methods, you can enjoy bountiful harvests of Rubus berries while contributing to a healthy ecosystem for pollinators.

Can I Use Rubus In Floral Arrangements?

Rubus can be a wonderful and unexpected addition to floral arrangements, adding texture, color, and unique visual interest. Here are some ways you can incorporate Rubus into your floral creations:

Foliage:

Raspberry Canes: The arching canes of raspberry plants, with their deep green leaves and red prickles, can add a rustic and dramatic element to arrangements. You can use them whole or cut them into shorter sections.

Blackberry Foliage: Blackberry leaves are smaller and more delicate than raspberry leaves, but they still offer a beautiful contrast to other flowers. They have a deep green color with slightly serrated edges and can be used to fill out the background of an arrangement.

Dewberry Foliage: Dewberry leaves are similar to blackberry leaves but slightly more oval in shape. They can be used in a similar way to blackberry foliage.

Berries:

Ripe Raspberries and Blackberries: While delicate and not always long-lasting, ripe raspberries and blackberries can add a pop of color and sweetness to an arrangement. Use them sparingly and choose berries that are just ripe but not overly soft.

Flowers:

Flowering Raspberry: Although not as common as the fruiting varieties, the flowering raspberry (Rubus odoratus) has beautiful pink or white flowers with a lovely fragrance. These can be used in arrangements just like any other cut flower.

Tips for Using Rubus in Floral Arrangements:

Choose healthy leaves and berries with no blemishes.

Wash the leaves and berries gently before using them.

Use sharp pruners to cut the canes and stems.

Condition the Rubus foliage by placing it in water for a few hours before using it.

Be creative! Experiment with different combinations of Rubus elements and other flowers to create unique and eye-catching arrangements.

Remember, Rubus can be a bit delicate, so handle it with care. But with a little creativity, you can use this versatile plant to add a touch of the unexpected to your floral designs.

Is Rubus Invasive?

Whether Rubus is invasive depends on the specific species and location. It's a complex issue with some species posing significant ecological threats, while others are harmless or even beneficial. Here's a breakdown:

Invasive Rubus Species:

Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus): This highly invasive species forms dense thickets, displacing native plants and hindering wildlife movement. It's considered a major threat in the Pacific Northwest and California.

Wineberry (Rubus phoenicolasius): Another aggressive invader, wineberry forms impenetrable thickets in forests and open areas, reducing habitat diversity and ecological balance. It's widespread in Eastern North America.

European raspberry (Rubus idaeus): While less aggressive than the above, this species can still become invasive in some areas, particularly affecting disturbed habitats and competing with native raspberries.

Non-invasive Rubus Species:

Native North American Rubus species: Most native Rubus species, like blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, are not invasive and play essential roles in their ecosystems. They provide food and shelter for wildlife and contribute to healthy plant communities.

Certain cultivated varieties: Some cultivated Rubus varieties have been bred for specific characteristics and may lack the invasive tendencies of their wild counterparts. However, it's crucial to research the specific variety before planting to ensure it won't become a problem in your area.

Factors to Consider:

Local regulations: Some regions have regulations or lists of invasive plant species to be aware of. Check with your local government or conservation organization for guidance.

Habitat suitability: The suitability of the habitat for a specific Rubus species plays a crucial role in its potential invasiveness. Disturbed soils and open areas often provide ideal conditions for invasive species to spread.

Planting practices: Responsible planting practices can help mitigate the risk of invasiveness. Avoid planting Rubus species known to be invasive in your area and choose native or non-invasive cultivars when possible.

Ultimately, be mindful and informed when choosing and planting Rubus species. Research the specific variety, consider its potential invasiveness in your region, and prioritize native or non-invasive options to ensure you're not contributing to environmental harm.

If you have any doubts or would like further guidance, consult your local nursery, gardening expert, or conservation organization for specific recommendations about safe and responsible Rubus cultivation in your area.

When Is The Best Time To Divide Rubus Plants?

The best time to divide Rubus plants depends on the specific species and your climate, but generally, there are two optimal windows:

Early Spring:

This is ideal for most primocane-fruiting Rubus species, like raspberries and most blackberries. These produce fruit on canes that grow in the first year and die back after fruiting. Dividing in early spring, just as new growth emerges, allows the divided plants to establish before fruiting sets in.

Late Summer/Early Fall:

This suits floricane-fruiting Rubus species, like some blackberry varieties. These fruit on canes that grow one year, overwinter, and fruit in the second year before dying back. Dividing in late summer or early fall, after fruiting is finished, gives the divided plants time to establish before winter dormancy.

Additional factors to consider:

Climate: In warmer climates, dividing can be done later in the fall, even into winter when the plants are dormant. However, avoid extremely cold winter periods.

Soil moisture: Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy at the time of division to facilitate root growth.

Weather: Choose a time with mild weather and avoid dividing during periods of extreme heat or drought.

Here are some specific examples:

Raspberries: Divide in early spring, ideally before flowering begins.

Blackberries:

Primocane-fruiting blackberries: Divide in early spring.

Floricane-fruiting blackberries: Divide in late summer or early fall after fruiting.

Dewberries: Divide in early spring.

No matter the timing, the general process of dividing Rubus plants remains the same:

Dig around the base of the plant, exposing the root system.

Use a sharp tool (like a spade or pruning shears) to carefully separate sections of the plant with good roots and shoots.

Replant the divided sections in well-prepared soil, keeping the crowns at the same depth as they were originally.

Water thoroughly and provide ongoing care until the plants are established.

By considering your specific Rubus species, climate, and other factors, you can choose the optimal time to divide your plants and ensure they thrive in their new locations.

Remember, if you're unsure about the best time or method for dividing your Rubus plants, consult your local nursery or gardening expert for specific recommendations tailored to your situation.

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