Rubus barbatus

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil in sun or semi-shade. This plant was supplied to us as R. barbatus with no indication as to who was the author of the name. Two species have been found that have used this name, R. barbatus. Edgew. ex Rehd. is given as a synonym of R. nepalensis, whilst R. barbatus. Fritsch. is given but without a description. This plant is not R. nepalensis so is assumed to be R. barbatus. Fitsch[K]. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.

Propagation

Seed - requires stratification and is best sown in early autumn in a cold frame. Stored seed requires one month stratification at about 3°c and is best sown as early as possible in the year. Prick out the seedlings when they are large enough to handle and grow on in a cold frame. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Tip layering in July. Plant out in autumn. Division in early spring or just before leaf-fall in the autumn.

Edible uses

Fruit - raw or cooked.

Material uses

A purple to dull blue dye is obtained from the fruit.

Habitat

Not known