Bush Honeysuckle, Swamp Dewberry
rubus hispidus
Also known as: ["Running Dewberry","Hispid Bramble"]
Overview
A low-growing, trailing bramble with three-parted leaves and small white flowers, native to eastern North America.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rubus |
| Botanical Name: | Rubus hispidus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: shady woodland garden or shaded rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil; a mix of peat moss, perlite, and loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions; prefers dappled sunlight or bright indirect light for 4–6 hours/day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch; place in a location with filtered light or morning sun only.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide shade during peak hours; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, acidic, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a peat-based mix; ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures; ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers cooler conditions in summer.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to prevent root burn; fertilize less frequently in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F) for rooting.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite for drainage; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, peat-based mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems, remove dead or crossing branches, and shape the plant as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid overpotting.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage deep roots; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during growing season; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost damage in winter.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but infrequently to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRubus hispidus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks known toxic compounds that would harm felines if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicRubus hispidus is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known substances that would pose a health risk to canines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicRubus hispidus, commonly known as bristly blackberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse health effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rubus hispidus edible?
A: The berries are edible but small and not commonly harvested.
Q: Does Rubus hispidus require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade and can thrive in shaded areas.
Q: How fast does Rubus hispidus grow?
A: It spreads moderately via trailing stems and rhizomes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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