Dewberry (Rubus caesius) is a trailing perennial berry plant that produces small, sweet blackberries. Perfect for home gardens, backyard orchards, and edible landscapes, Dewberries provide nutritious fruit while attracting pollinators.
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, prefers well-drained, fertile soil, and is Non-GMO, making it ideal for gardeners looking to grow homegrown berries from seed.
Features
- Produces sweet, small Dewberry fruit
- Trailing growth habit ideal for groundcover and orchard edges
- Non-GMO seeds
- Low-maintenance perennial berry plant
- Attracts pollinators and supports biodiversity
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Rubus caesius
- Common Name: Dewberry
- Plant Type: Perennial trailing berry plant
- Growth Habit: Low-growing, trailing, spreading plant
- Mature Height: 1–3 ft; spreads up to 4–6 ft
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–7.0)
- Watering Needs: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist
- Germination Time: 2–4 weeks
- Days to Fruit: 2–3 years from seed under optimal conditions
- Seed Type: Non-GMO
- Container Friendly: Yes, suitable for raised beds and large containers
- Climate Preference: Temperate regions with cold winters for dormancy
- Suggested Growing Sites: Home gardens, backyard orchards, edible landscapes, container planting
- Winter Care: Mulch base to protect roots; prune after harvest for best growth
Planting Guide
- Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
- Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep in well-draining, fertile seed-starting mix.
- Keep soil moist and maintain temperatures of 65–75°F (18–24°C) until germination.
- Transplant seedlings into garden beds, orchard edges, or containers after reaching 6–8 inches tall.
- Provide full sun to partial shade, regular watering, and prune trailing stems to encourage fruiting.