Schleicher's Bramble
rubus schleicheri
Also known as: ["Schleicher's Raspberry","Schleicher's Bramble"]
Overview
A species of bramble in the rose family, Rubus schleicheri is a deciduous shrub native to certain regions of Europe and Asia. It is characterized by its prickly stems and compound leaves, producing small, edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rubus |
| Botanical Name: | Rubus schleicheri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove about one-third of the oldest canes each year.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacting soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings root easily in summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut canes back to the ground; thin out crowded areas; trim side shoots to encourage fruiting canes.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or weak canes to improve air circulation and fruit production; shape the plant for better light exposure.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; remove dead/diseased canes; thin overcrowded areas; shape for light access.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning or blackening of leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can damage tender tissues; frost can kill above-ground parts.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; move containers indoors during freezes; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced fruit production; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRubus schleicheri is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known substances that would be harmful to felines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicRubus schleicheri is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would be harmful to canines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicRubus schleicheri, commonly known as Schleicher's bramble, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rubus schleicheri suitable for beginners?
A: No, it requires moderate care and is better suited for enthusiasts.
Q: Does Rubus schleicheri attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Are the fruits of Rubus schleicheri edible?
A: Yes, the small fruits are edible.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store