Rubus occidentalis, commonly known as Black Raspberry, is a native deciduous shrub found in woodlands, thickets, forest edges, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in partial shade and prefers well-drained, loamy soils, though it is adaptable to a range of conditions, making it suitable for both naturalized landscapes and edible native plant gardens.
This arching shrub typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall and spreads by tip-rooting canes. It features compound leaves with three to five leaflets, white undersides, and stems covered in fine prickles with a distinctive bluish-white bloom. In late spring to early summer, it produces small clusters of five-petaled white flowers, which are followed by sweet, edible black raspberries in early to mid-summer. These fruits are beloved by humans and wildlife alike, including birds, mammals, and pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Rubus occidentalis is an ecologically and culinarily valuable shrub that provides nectar for pollinators, food for birds and wildlife, and fruit for human harvest. It pairs well with other native fruiting shrubs like Elderberry and Serviceberry in edible landscapes or as part of a diverse native thicket. Due to its vigorous growth, occasional pruning or containment may be needed in managed settings.
Rubus occidentalis, commonly known as Black Raspberry, is a native deciduous shrub found in woodlands, thickets, forest edges, and disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in partial shade and prefers well-drained, loamy soils, though it is adaptable to a range of conditions, making it suitable for both naturalized landscapes and edible native plant gardens.
This arching shrub typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall and spreads by tip-rooting canes. It features compound leaves with three to five leaflets, white undersides, and stems covered in fine prickles with a distinctive bluish-white bloom. In late spring to early summer, it produces small clusters of five-petaled white flowers, which are followed by sweet, edible black raspberries in early to mid-summer. These fruits are beloved by humans and wildlife alike, including birds, mammals, and pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Rubus occidentalis is an ecologically and culinarily valuable shrub that provides nectar for pollinators, food for birds and wildlife, and fruit for human harvest. It pairs well with other native fruiting shrubs like Elderberry and Serviceberry in edible landscapes or as part of a diverse native thicket. Due to its vigorous growth, occasional pruning or containment may be needed in managed settings.
Bloom: late spring to very early summer
Habitats: fence rows; openings in deciduous woodlands; overgrown vacant lots; partially shaded areas along buildings; powerline clearances in wooded areas; savannas; thickets; woodland borders
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): shrub (3 to 6 feet)
Requirements: partial sun
Soil: rich loamy soil
