Blackcap Raspberry (Rubus leucodermis)

Also called whitebark raspberry due to the striking light colour of its stems, blackcap raspberries are one of the most delicious native berries of our region! This fast-growing, multi-stemmed shrub consists of erect to arching, thorny canes which are biennial, producing flowers and fruits in their second year. Clusters of white flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects in the spring, followed by purple-black berries in the summer, which are tasty and high in antioxidants. Once the canes are spent, cut them back, leaving at least 1' for nesting habitat for bees, and fresh canes will emerge the following year. Blackcap raspberry plants are great for edible landscapes, hedgerows, wildlife habitat, and erosion control.

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil & Moisture: Moist to seasonally dry, well-drained soil. Tolerates a variety of soil types. Drought tolerant once established.
Mature Size: up to 6' tall and wide
Bloom Time: mid spring to mid summer
Edible: Yes (berries)
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Attracts beneficial insects. Fruits are eaten by many birds and mammals. Butterfly and moth host plant. Provides cover and nesting sites. Old canes used by cavity-nesting bees.
Native Range & Habitat: Thrives in disturbed areas, open forests, fields, and forest edges from low to middle elevations. Occurs from southern British Columbia south to California, and east to the Rocky Mountains.
Other Names: Whitebark raspberry, black raspberry