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Rubus /ˈrʊbʊs/

Common name: Red raspberry

Rubus A large genus of several hundred shrubs and scrambling perennials in the rose family, found across the temperate northern hemisphere. It includes raspberries, blackberries, and their many hybrids, all grown for their sweet aggregate fruits. They are easy, vigorous plants for sunny spots with reasonably fertile, well-drained soil, and most fruit best on second-year canes.

Fun facts

  • A raspberry is not a single berry but an aggregate of dozens of tiny drupelets.
  • The species name "idaeus" means "of Mount Ida," referring to mountains in ancient Anatolia.
  • Raspberries spread aggressively by underground suckers and can form dense thickets.
  • Unlike blackberries, a picked raspberry leaves its core (receptacle) behind on the plant, making it hollow.

Care summary

Sun Full sun
Water Regular moisture, about 2.5 cm (1 in) per week
Soil Slightly acidic, rich, well-drained soil
Hardiness
Mature height
Pet safe

Common problems

    • Prune out wilted canes below damage
    • Remove and destroy infested canes
    • Keep plantings weed-free and clean
    • Space canes for good air circulation
    • Pick ripe fruit promptly and often
    • Avoid overhead watering near harvest
    • Blast colonies off with water spray
    • Encourage ladybirds and lacewings
    • Apply insecticidal soap to undersides
    • Dig out suckers outside the row
    • Install a buried root barrier
    • Choose clumping rather than running types