Rubus occidentalis

Common Name
Black raspberry
Plant Form
Shrubs & Small Trees
Duration
Perennial
Max Height (ft)
6.0
Width (ft)
4.0 - 8.0
Growth Rate
Fast
Region
Coastal
Piedmont
Mountain
Hardiness Zone
5, 6, 7, 8
Commercially available
Yes

Photographer: djweyer
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Photographer: djweyer
Licensed under: CC BY-NC 4.0
Original photo: Original photo

Additional Info

Habitat: Mesic to dry upland forests, well-drained alluvial forests, rocky woodlands,\ barrens, clearings, old fields, and roadsides. Common throughout Virginia, except in far southeast Virginia.

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. Dead stems are used by stem-nesting bees.

Edibility: The fleshy fruits are sweet and slightly tart in flavor; they detach cleanly and easily from their receptacles. Excellent flavor.

Flower Color
Cream/White
Flower Prominence
Conspicuous
Bloom Time
Spring
Early Summer
Bloom Month
April
May
June
Light Requirements
Full sun
Partial sun
Moisture Requirements
Moist
Soil Texture
High organic matter
Low Maintenance
Yes
Seed or Fruit eaten by wildlife?
Yes
Pollinators
Bees
Butterfiles
Top 30 for Butterfly and Moth Caterpillars?
Yes
Number of Lepidotera Species Genus Supports
127
Bona Terra Nursery

Small family-run native plant nursery with a focus on the local genetics necessary to restore diversity in the Chesapeake eco-region. Offers free remote design service for small gardens up to 400 square feet. Orders are placed via email and items can be picked up at their NW DC office or delivered for a fee. This plant list is from the beginning of the 2025 season and may be out-of-date

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0 3 Gallon

Local Ecotype coming soon!

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