Explore Rubus ulmifolius (Elmleaf Blackberry) - its characteristics, habitat, cultivation, propagation, and functional uses and benefits.
Rubus ulmifolius | Botanical Characteristics
Common Names: Elmleaf Blackberry, Thornless Blackberry
Family: Rosaceae
Appearance: A deciduous shrub with arching canes, thorny stems, compound leaves, and white or pink flowers that produce black, edible berries.
Type: Perennial
Evergreen / Deciduous: Deciduous
Layer: Shrub
Root System: Features a fibrous and spreading root system
Height: Up to 3 meters
Width: Can spread widely through suckering
Lifespan: Several decades
Growth Rate: Fast
Fertility: Self-fertile
Flowers: Hermaphroditic
Pollinator: Bees and other insects
Toxicity: Not known hazards
Rubus ulmifolius | Habitat and Cultivation
Range
Native Range: Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia
Companionship: Often found with other shrubs and small trees in hedgerows and woodlands
Invasive Range: Can be invasive in some regions, particularly in temperate climates
USDA Hardiness Zone: 5 - 9
Minimum Chill Hours Required: None specified
Resistance/Tolerance
Poor Soil: High tolerance
Drought: Moderate tolerance
Shade: Moderate tolerance
Flood: Low tolerance
Wind: Moderate tolerance
Maritime: High tolerance
Air Pollution: High tolerance
Fire: Moderate tolerance
Thriving Conditions
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Moisture: Prefers moist but well-drained conditions
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy, loamy, or clay soils
Soil PH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral (5.5 - 7.0)
Propagation
Seeds: Can be grown from seed, but usually propagated by cuttings or layering
Cuttings: Yes, typically hardwood cuttings
Rubus ulmifolius | Functional Uses and Benefits
Edible: The berries are edible and used in various culinary applications
Medicinal: Used in traditional medicine for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties
Cosmetics: Not typically used in cosmetics
Animal Feed: The leaves and fruits can be used as fodder for livestock
Fiber: Not used for fiber
Timber: Not used for timber
Firewood: Not typically used for firewood
Wind Break: Can serve as a windbreak due to its dense growth
Fence: Can be used as a natural barrier plant
Cover Crop: Not typically used as a cover crop
Mulch: Not typically used as mulch
Nitrogen Fixer: No
Dynamic Accumulator: No significant data available
Pollinator Attractor: Yes, attracts bees and other pollinators
Pest Repellent: Not typically known as a pest repellent
Wildlife Supporter: Provides habitat and food for various insects and birds
Sign up for our newsletter or connect with us on social media to stay up-to-date with our latest posts and permaculture inspiration.
Explore our inspiring series and posts:
Love the post? Share it with your circle, inspire your people