Also known as Blue Bramble · Blue Rubus · Bramble
European dewberry (Rubus caesius) is a low-growing bramble with bluish-black, edible berries and a sprawling habit. Native to Europe and Western Asia.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best fruiting, but tolerates some shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Tolerates a range of temperatures, requires winter chill for dormancy.
Low
25% intensity
Benefits from annual compost; avoid excessive feeding.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic, but thorns can cause physical injury.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim for deep watering to encourage strong root development.
Reduce watering frequency in autumn as the plant enters dormancy, but do not let the soil dry out completely.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove old, unproductive canes, any dead or damaged wood, and thin out overly dense growth to improve air circulation.
This encourages vigorous new cane production for the following season's fruiting.
Propagate by layering or taking softwood cuttings in early summer. For layering, bend a low-growing stem to the ground, make a small nick in the underside, and bury that section in the soil.
Once rooted, sever it from the parent plant.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established Rubus caesius plants as they are best grown in situ. If a young plant needs a larger container, do so in early spring before significant growth begins.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of European Dewberry (Rubus caesius)
Where European Dewberry (Rubus caesius) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
| Species | Rubus caesius |
Similar in genus Rubus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
