Strawberry Raspberry
rubus illecebrosus
Also known as: ["Japanese Raspberry","False Raspberry"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with trailing stems, small pinkish-white flowers, and edible, raspberry-like 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 illecebrosus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
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 up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature for indoor plants.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; switch to a low-nitrogen formula if foliage growth is excessive; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with nodes; division of root clumps is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth typically appears within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible to encourage rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased stems; shape the plant; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and root system.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation of the soil; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; 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 perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold; wilting in sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRubus illecebrosus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, with no reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicRubus illecebrosus is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant's fruit and other parts are typically safe for canine consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicRubus illecebrosus, commonly known as strawberry raspberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant is often cultivated for its ornamental and edible qualities, with its fruit being consumed without adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rubus illecebrosus easy to grow?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring some attention to soil and water conditions.
Q: Are the fruits of Rubus illecebrosus edible?
A: Yes, the small raspberry-like fruits are edible and safe for consumption.
Q: Does Rubus illecebrosus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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