Description
Blackberry Shrub is one of the largest berries in the north country. In bear country keep your eyes pealed for bears as it is one of their preferred foods.
Scientific Name: Rubus allegheniensis (Allegheny blackberry, representative native blackberry species)
Zone: 4–9
Mature Height: 3–6 ft (upright canes)
Mature Width: 3–6 ft, spreading by rhizomes
Fruit: Black, juicy aggregate drupelets (commonly called blackberries), ½″–1″ long, edible and sweet-tart in flavor
Flowers: White, 5-petaled, about 1″ across, in clusters
Bloom Time: May–June
Growth Rate: Fast; new canes emerge annually and can grow 3–5 ft in a single season
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil preferred, but tolerant of a range of soils including clay and sandy loam
Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established
Flood Tolerance: Low to moderate; prefers well-drained sites
Sun Requirements: Full sun for best fruiting, but tolerates partial shade
Fall Color: Canes and leaves often turn red to burgundy before dropping
Wildlife Value: Excellent food source—berries attract songbirds, game birds, black bears, foxes, raccoons, and many small mammals. Flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators. Thickets also create valuable nesting and protective cover for wildlife.
For more information visit the Native Plant Trust Rubus allegheniensis (common blackberry): Go Botany
