Rubus bloxamii
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
Easily grown in a good well-drained loamy soil in sun or semi-shade. According to the Flora Europaea this species is native to Britain, but it is not in The Flora of the British Isles. This species is very closely related to R. pallidus. 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
Frequent in wooded districts.
Native range
Western Europe, including Britain, from Denmark to Belgium, Germany and Hungary.