Rubus leucodermis aka Whitebark Raspberry

Rubus leucodermis is a deciduous raspberry in the rose family. Its common names include blackcap and western raspberry. It grows wild in western North America, from Alaska to Chihuahua, Mexico. Its range includes British Columbia and much of the western United States. It grows in fields and on open or wooded hills. Oregon lists it as a native plant.

This shrub has arching or trailing canes that form thickets. Sources give heights of 6–8 feet [1.8–2.5 metres]. Plants For A Future gives a spread of 3.3 feet [1 metre]. Growth is moderate. The roots live for many years, but each cane lasts two years. New canes grow each year, then fruit in their second season. They die after fruiting. Round stems bear curved, flat prickles and a white wax coating. Older stems look pale blue over red bark. The species name refers to this pale skin.

The leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Each leaf has three to seven broad, egg-shaped leaflets. Their edges have coarse teeth, and the blades look wrinkled. The upper side is green; soft hairs cover the pale underside. Prickles can also grow on leaf stalks and veins. Small white or pink flowers open in spring and early summer. They grow alone or in groups of three to seven. Each flower has both male and female parts. Insects pollinate them. The hairy fruit turns from red to dark purple or black. A pale bloom coats the berries, which ripen in summer.

For garden growth, choose moist, well-drained soil and shelter from wind. Plants For A Future favours loam in sun or partial shade. Oregon State also reports growth in shade, sand, and clay. It notes tolerance of poor drainage and floods in some seasons. The plant accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soil. Oregon State lists it as hardy to USDA zone 5. It suits sunny woodland edges and sites with light shade.

People grow this raspberry for its sweet, soft fruit. Eat ripe berries fresh, cook them, or dry them. The fruit can make pies, jam, and purple or blue dye. Leaves can make tea. Peel young spring shoots before eating them raw or cooked. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards or weed risk. It also records past medicinal uses, not proof of benefit.