Japanese wineberry
rubus phoenicolasius
Also known as: ["wineberry","thorny wineberry"]
Overview
A deciduous, thorny shrub native to Asia, known for its edible red berries and arching stems covered in red hairs.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rubus |
| Botanical Name: | Rubus phoenicolasius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container with support for climbing canes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or aged manure.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, removing up to one-third of old canes each year.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily), with some afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun; provide shade during extreme heat; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in intense summer sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; mulch to retain moisture; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates cooler nights but is sensitive to frost and extreme heat.
Monitor temperature extremes; use shade or frost protection; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood stem cuttings or division of root crowns.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut canes back to the base, thin out weak or crossing stems, and train remaining canes for support.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased canes, thin overcrowded growth, and shape for better air circulation and fruit production.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers, gloves, and disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, remove dead/diseased canes, thin overcrowded growth, shape plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; essential for vigorous growth and fruiting.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, trim roots if necessary, position plant correctly, water well, provide support.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone, avoid wetting foliage, and ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in summer and every 14–21 days in winter, adjusting for rainfall and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, and ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting during extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, and may lead to frost damage or dieback.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced fruit production.
Solution: Provide shade, increase watering, use mulch to retain moisture, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer, apply at correct dilution, water before and after, avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThe berries of Rubus phoenicolasius are not considered toxic to cats. They are generally safe for consumption in small to moderate amounts, though excessive intake may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to their fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThe berries of Rubus phoenicolasius are not considered toxic to dogs. They are generally safe for consumption in small to moderate amounts, though excessive intake may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to their fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Rubus phoenicolasius, commonly known as wineberry, are generally considered safe for consumption when ripe. However, consuming large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content and natural compounds. The physiological impact is typically limited to digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the berries of Rubus phoenicolasius edible?
A: Yes, the berries are edible and often used in jams, desserts, and fresh consumption.
Q: How does Rubus phoenicolasius grow?
A: It grows as a deciduous shrub with arching stems covered in red hairs, producing thorny canes and red berries.
Q: Is Rubus phoenicolasius invasive?
A: It can be invasive in some regions, so it is recommended to manage its growth carefully.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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