Rubus calycinoides (18)ct Flat

Product Description

Rubus hayata-koidzumii is better known (incorrectly) as Rubus calcinoides  (18)ct Flat
Common names: Creeping Raspberry, Crinkle-leaf Creeper, Taiwanese Creeping Rubus, Creeping Bramble, and Emerald Carpet.
Sun to Medium Shade
Zones 6 to 9
Grows 3 to 6 inches high and spreads in all directions.

Durable, fast-growing evergreen groundcover that takes sun or shade. The thick, coarse-texture, dark green foliage adorns stem runners that root as they creep along the ground. Creeping raspberry is aggressive, but not invasive. It doesn't climb trees or smother shrubs. Easily control it with mechanical edging.

In spring and summer, the leaves are shiny dark green above and gray-green below, turning to burgundy in fall and winter. Small white midsummer flowers turn to tiny fruits in late summer. Fruit is edible and tasty, but tiny, so leave them for the birds.

Plant 4 to 6 feet apart to allow room to spread. Full sun is best, although plants will adapt to partial shade. Too much irrigation or wet soils is not a good thing. A light trimming with the mower in late winter will encourage new growth in spring.

A low-growing member of the genus Rubus which also includes better known edibles such as the blackberry, raspberry, boysenberry, thimbleberry, etc. Originally from Taiwan where it grows at high elevations.

Rubus hayata-koidzumii, also known as the creeping raspberry or Taiwanese creeping bramble, is a versatile and attractive groundcover plant with a unique appearance and several uses in the landscape. Here is a summary of its key features and growing conditions:

• Creeping Habit: As the name suggests, this plant has a creeping or trailing growth habit, forming a dense mat of foliage that can spread up to 3 feet or more. It typically stays low to the ground, reaching only 1-3 inches in height.
• Crinkled Leaves: The deep green leaves are notably crinkled or wrinkled, giving them a distinctive texture. This, along with their slightly rounded shape and 3-5 lobes, adds visual interest to the landscape.
• Seasonal Color Changes: In autumn, the foliage takes on attractive bronze or reddish hues, providing additional seasonal interest.
• Flowers and Fruit: In mid-summer, the plant produces small, white flowers that are often hidden amongst the foliage. These are followed by edible, aggregate fruits (similar to raspberries) that range in color from yellow to orange-red. While not as flavorful as traditional raspberries, they are still a sweet treat.
• Adaptable and Tough: This Rubus species is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in challenging conditions, including dry slopes, areas with fluctuating moisture, and even deep shade.

Growing Conditions:

• Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
• Light: Tolerates a wide range of light conditions, from full sun to full shade.
• Soil: Adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-drained soil.
• Moisture: Drought-tolerant once established, but appreciates regular watering during hot, dry periods.

Uses in the Landscape:  

• Groundcover: Excellent for covering large areas, suppressing weeds, and preventing erosion on slopes.
• Underplanting: Thrives under trees and shrubs where other plants struggle due to shade and root competition.
• Containers and Hanging Baskets: Its trailing habit makes it a good choice for containers and hanging baskets, where its foliage can cascade over the edges.
• Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit helps stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.

Maintenance:

• Low Maintenance: Generally, requires little maintenance once established.
• Edging: May require occasional edging to control spreading if desired.

Additional Notes:

• Not Invasive: While it spreads vigorously, it is not considered invasive and will not climb trees or choke out neighboring shrubs like some other Rubus species.
• Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the fruits are eaten by birds.
• Synonym: Rubus hayata-koidzumii is sometimes listed as Rubus calycinoides or Rubus rolfei in the horticultural trade.

If you are looking for a tough, adaptable, and attractive groundcover with unique foliage and the added bonus of edible fruit, Rubus hayata-koidzumii is an excellent choice!

Eighteen (18) plants in 3.5-inch containers per flat (or tray).

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