Rubus rolfei aka Gao Shan Xuan Gou Zi

Rubus rolfei is a low, woody plant in the rose family. Gardeners call it creeping raspberry or crinkle-leaf creeper. Its native range covers Taiwan and the Philippines. It grows in mountain forests, clearings, and other open sites. These sites lie in tropical and subtropical regions. Gardens also grow it for ground cover and edible fruit.

Its creeping stems take root where their nodes touch soil. Short, upright stems rise from this mat and bear fruit. Most accounts describe a mat about 0.25 feet (0.08 metres) high. Other sources give heights up to 1 foot (0.30 metres). Garden plants spread about 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 metres) wide. The green stems have dense hairs and small, curved prickles. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. They have three to five lobes and a wrinkled surface. Their dark green, glossy blades give the mat a coarse texture. Leaves turn copper, rust, or pink in fall and winter. They stay on the plant in most climates. Severe winter cold can cause leaf loss.

Small white flowers sit among the leaves and draw little attention. North Carolina State lists blooms from April to June. Its account also mentions flowers in mid-summer. Insects pollinate the flowers, which provide nectar. The fruits have the clustered form of a raspberry or blackberry. They measure about half an inch across. Their colors range from yellow and orange to salmon and red. The flesh tastes sweet, and people eat it raw or cooked. People also gather the fruit from wild plants.

This plant grows in sun, partial shade, or dappled light. Useful Tropical Plants also reports success in deep shade. It grows well in loam with good drainage. North Carolina State lists shallow, rocky soils as suitable too. It tolerates drought, hot slopes, and sites with changing moisture. Its listed USDA hardiness range is zones 7–9. Care needs are low, and its stated growth rate is moderate.

Use it across slopes, in containers, or over rock walls. Bulbs and other perennials can grow through its foliage. It spreads strongly but is not described as invasive. An edger can keep its margins in check. Deer resistance adds to its value as ground cover. North Carolina State reports no known pest or disease problems. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. The fruit can also yield purple to muted blue dye.