Bring the flavor of the wild to your garden with the Trailing Blackberry (Rubus ursinus), also known as the Pacific Blackberry. This hardy, vining shrub produces clusters of juicy, sweet-tart blackberries that are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. A native species to North America’s west coast, it is ideal for naturalizing landscapes, creating edible hedges, or training along trellises and fences.
The Rubus ursinus vine is low-growing and spreading, making it a great choice for groundcover in sunny or partially shaded areas. Its white spring flowers attract pollinators, while its dark, glossy berries provide delicious summer harvests. Whether you’re looking for a wild, natural aesthetic or a productive berry crop, this hardy plant is a must-have for fruit lovers.
Features
- Sweet Wild Berries: Produces flavorful blackberries perfect for eating fresh or preserving.
- Native and Hardy: Adapted to diverse climates; drought-tolerant once established.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies with its small white flowers.
- Vining Growth Habit: Excellent for groundcover, trellises, or wild garden edges.
- Nutrient-Rich Fruit: Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins A and C.
Specifications
- Common Name: Trailing Blackberry / Pacific Blackberry
- Scientific Name: Rubus ursinus
- Plant Type: Perennial vining shrub
- USDA Zones: 5–9
- Growth Habit: Trailing or low climbing; 3–6 ft spread
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil
- Soil pH: 5.5–7.0
- Watering: Keep soil moist, especially during fruiting
- Temperature Range: 60–85°F (15–30°C)
- Germination Time: 2–6 weeks
- Bloom Time: Spring (white flowers)
- Fruit Harvest: Summer to early fall
- GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
- Organic Status: Naturally grown, untreated seeds
- Uses: Fresh eating, preserves, pies, smoothies, and wildlife gardens
Planting Guide
- Cold Stratification: Refrigerate seeds in moist sand for 30–60 days before sowing.
- Sowing Depth: Plant ¼ inch deep in well-draining seed mix.
- Light: Place in bright, indirect sunlight or a greenhouse.
- Temperature: Maintain 65–75°F for germination.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors after last frost.
- Support: Train vines along a trellis or allow them to trail naturally.
- Pruning: Prune older canes annually to encourage new growth.
- Harvest: Pick berries when fully black and glossy for peak flavor.
Care Tips
- Space plants 3–4 feet apart for optimal growth.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
- Protect from birds during fruiting season.
- Apply compost or balanced fertilizer in spring.
- Water regularly during dry periods for consistent fruiting.