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Dewberry (Rubus caesius)

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description Dewberry (Rubus caesius) Overview

Rubus caesius, commonly known as the European dewberry, is a low-growing, trailing shrub in the rose family native to Europe and western Asia. It is distinguished from upright blackberry species by its prostrate stems that root at the tips when they touch the ground. During late summer, the plant produces small, edible aggregate fruits that are dark blue-black in color and covered in a distinctive waxy bloom. It typically grows in heaths, open woods, and disturbed ground across its native range.

help Dewberry (Rubus caesius) FAQ

What makes Rubus caesius different from an upright blackberry?

Rubus caesius, the European dewberry, has trailing or mat-forming stems instead of the strongly upright canes seen in many blackberry plants. Its runners can root where their tips touch the ground. [Royal Horticultural Society](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/121192/rubus-caesius/details)

Is the European dewberry a blackberry?

It is a separate Eurasian Rubus species, although it is related to blackberries and raspberries in the rose family. The species name is Rubus caesius.

When does Rubus caesius produce fruit?

The trailing stems flower and bear fruit in their second year, then die back after fruiting. The berries ripen toward late summer and often have a blue-black appearance.

How does European dewberry spread?

It spreads naturally through tip layering, because stem tips form roots when they contact soil. Gardeners can control it by pruning old fruited stems and removing newly rooted sections.

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