Note: SCD does not ship plants, all orders are pick up only.

Rubus occidentalis is a species of Rubus native to eastern North America. Its common name black raspberry is shared with other closely related species. Other names occasionally used include bear's eye blackberry, black cap, black cap raspberry, and scotch cap.

Uses (Ethnobotany):
Flavorful fruit can be eaten raw or cooked as a topping, filling, or jam. It is of variable quality, with the finest forms having a rich acid flavor. Young shoots can be eaten raw or cooked like rhubarb. They are harvested as they emerge through the soil in the spring while they are still tender, and then peeled. A tea is made from the leaves or from the bark of the root.

Life Cycle: Perennial
Recommended Propagation Strategy: Seed, Stem Cutting

Wildlife Value:
This plant provides nectar for pollinators. Excellent cover for small mammals and birds. Blooms attract pollinators. Fruits are eaten by songbirds, mammals, and black bears. During the winter, birds and small mammals eat the seeds left from rotted fruit.
Particularly Resistant To (Insects/Diseases/Other Problems):
Moderately resistant to deer.
Edibility:
The fleshy fruits are sweet and slightly tart in flavor; they detach cleanly and easily from their receptacles. Excellent flavor.
Dimensions:
Height: 3 ft. 0 in. - 6 ft. 0 in.
Width: 4 ft. 0 in. - 8 ft. 0 in.

Landscape Location: Woodland Landscape

Theme: Native

Garden Pollinator

Garden Attracts: Bees Butterflies Pollinators Small Mammals Songbirds 

Resistance To: Heat

Light: Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours)

Soil Texture: High Organic Matter

Soil Drainage: Moist Occasionally Dry

NC Region: Coastal Mountains Piedmont USDA

Plant Hardiness Zone: 4a, 4b, 5b, 5a, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8b, 8a