Rubus caesius aka European Dewberry

Rubus caesius is a deciduous, woody member of the rose family. Its common names include European dewberry and blue bramble. RHS gives its range as Europe to the Himalayas, northwestern Africa and Yemen. It is native to Britain and Ireland. Plants For A Future also records it across Europe and temperate Asia. It grows in hedges, among shrubs and in rough, dry meadows. These wild sites often have basic soils.

This bramble can spread along the ground or climb with support. In gardens, it reaches about 5–8 feet (1.5–2.5 metres) tall. Its spread is about 3–5 feet (1–1.5 metres). RHS gives a maturity time of two to five years. The plant sheds its leaves for winter. Each stem flowers and fruits in its second year. That stem then dies back. Stem tips can take root, helping the plant spread into nearby ground.

White flowers give way to small, blue-black fruit. The fruits are smaller than blackberries and contain just a few drupes. You can eat them raw or cook them. They also suit jelly and preserves. Reports of flavour differ: some rate it highly, while others find it bland. Fresh or dried leaves can serve as a tea substitute. The fruit also yields a dye in purple to muted blue shades. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards or medicinal uses.

Grow it in sun or part shade, with moist soil that drains well. It accepts clay, loam, sand and chalk. Acid, neutral and alkaline soils all suit it. RHS lists both exposed and sheltered sites as suitable. It gives this species an H6 hardiness rating. Plants For A Future places it in USDA zones 4–8. Its trailing growth suits banks, slopes and ground cover. With support, it can also grow against a wall. Woodland edges offer another place to grow it.

Allow room for its stems to spread and root. Annual pruning and removal of rooted stem sections help contain it. Cut out old stems once they have finished fruiting. You can raise new plants from seed or by tip layering. This species also layers without help when stem tips reach soil. RHS reports few pest problems. Grey mould can occur, and honey fungus is a less frequent risk. These disease risks still matter despite its general lack of pests.