Rubus saxatilis Winter (01/03/2015, Kew Gardens, London)
Position: Full sun to dappled shade
Soil: Moist, well drained
Flowering period: Early summer
Eventual Height: 60cm
Eventual Spread: 1m
Hardiness: 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Family: Rosaceae
Rubus saxatilis is a deciduous shrub with a clump forming habit. The mid green leaves are compound, usually contain up to 3 leaflets. Its leaflets are ovate with serrate margins, up to 8cm long and 6cm broad. Its biennial stems are up to 60cm long, have small thorns and have a patchy white covering during the winter months. Its white flowers are saucer shaped, up to 1cm across and appear in the leaf axils on second year wood. Its red spherical fruit are drupes and up to 1.5cm across. This shrub produces runners which aids its spread.
Rubus saxatilis, commonly known as Stone Bramble, is native to parts of Europe (including the UK), temperate Asia and Japan. In its native habitat it grows in forests, thickets and woodland edges.
The etymological root of the binomial name Rubus is derived from the old Roman name for this plant. Saxatilis is from the Latin meaning ‘ that lives amongst rocks’.
Rubus saxatilis Stem (01/03/2015, Kew Gardens, London)
The landscape architect may find Rubus saxatilis useful as part of a native, wildlife friendly planting scheme.
Ecologically, Rubus saxatilis flowers are attractive to pollinating insects, including bees and flies. Its fruit are attractive to many birds and mammals.
Rubus saxatilis prefers moist, humus rich, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil, including very alkali.
Rubus saxatilis requires little maintenance. Unwanted runners may be removed as required.
