Rubus odoratus aka Purpleflowering Raspberry
Taxonomy
Rubus odoratus, also known as the purple-flowered raspberry, flowering raspberry, or Virginia raspberry, is a shrub that is native to eastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Ontario and Wisconsin, and south along the Appalachian Mountains as far as Georgia and Alabama. Unlike many other species in the Rubus genus, Rubus odoratus has perennial stems that can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) tall and does not have thorns. Its palmately lobed leaves have five (rarely three or seven) lobes and can grow up to 25 cm (10 inches) long and broad, resembling maple leaves. From early spring to early fall, the plant produces magenta or occasionally white flowers that are 3–5 cm (1.2–2 inches) in diameter and have five petals. The plant's fruit, which matures in late summer to early autumn, is a large, flat raspberry with many drupelets that is rather fuzzy to the touch and tongue and is edible.
While Rubus odoratus is not commonly grown as a houseplant, it is possible to do so. The plant needs regular watering to thrive and does best in long-lasting, direct light, less than 1 foot from a window. It prefers soil that is well-draining, and if repotted each time it doubles in size, it should not need added fertilizers. As a member of the Rubus genus, Rubus odoratus is a unique and interesting addition to any plant collection.
Common names
Purpleflowering Raspberry, Thimbleberry, Flowering Raspberry, Purple Flowered Raspberry, Virginia RaspberryHow to care for Purpleflowering Raspberry
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Purpleflowering Raspberry, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Purpleflowering Raspberry should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Purpleflowering Raspberry loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Purpleflowering Raspberry prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Purpleflowering Raspberry plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Fertilizer
Once the Purpleflowering Raspberry has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
Purpleflowering Raspberry grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Purpleflowering Raspberry’s native range is Eastern N. America - Quebec to Ontario and south to Tennessee. Occasionally naturalized in Britain.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Rubus Genus
Rubus baileyanus Bailey's Dewberry
Rubus crataegifolius
Rubus ampelinus
Rubus laciniatus Cutleaf Blackberry
Rubus sanctus Holy Bramble
Rubus squarrosus Bush Lawyer
Rubus pectinellus
Rubus niveus Hill Raspberry
