Ash-leaved Raspberry
rubus fraxinifolius
Also known as: ["Ashleaf Raspberry","Raspberry Ashleaf"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to parts of Asia, notable for its leaves resembling those of ash trees and its edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Rubus |
| Botanical Name: | Rubus fraxinifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with protection from intense afternoon sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering or in late winter/early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old canes to rejuvenate growth.
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 intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage before planting.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from drafts; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care based on seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings root most reliably.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut canes back to the base or lateral buds, thin out crowded areas, and shape for structure.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased canes, shape the plant, and encourage airflow and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, cut at correct angle, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
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 outgrow the container; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare soil mix, inspect roots, position plant correctly, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during growing season; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy; roots become susceptible to damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute correctly, apply to soil, avoid foliage, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRubus fraxinifolius berries are not toxic to cats. Similar to dogs, excessive consumption may cause mild digestive issues due to the fruit's fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicThe berries of Rubus fraxinifolius are not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion of large amounts may lead to mild digestive upset due to the fruit's fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicRubus fraxinifolius, commonly known as Ash-leaved Raspberry, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, consuming large quantities of its berries may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content and natural compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the fruits of Rubus fraxinifolius edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and can be consumed fresh or used in culinary preparations.
Q: Does Rubus fraxinifolius attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruits.
Q: What are common issues with growing Rubus fraxinifolius?
A: Common problems include yellow leaves, wilting, and rotting, often due to improper watering or soil conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| 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
