Trailing Blackberry (Rubus ursinus)

Not to be confused with the invasive himalayan blackberry, this species is native to coastal British Columbia, with berries that are sweeter and even more delicious than the invasive ones! As the name would suggest, trailing blackberry has long, prickly stems that trail along the ground, reaching lengths up to 20' and rooting where nodes contact the soil. Attractive star-shaped flowers feed native bees in the spring, followed by tasty berries in the summer that are loved by both humans and wildlife. The canes are biennial, with flowers and fruits developing on second year growth, after which they can be pruned back. Male and female flowers are on separate plants; at least one male plant and one female plant are required to produce fruit. Trailing blackberry provides year-round visual interest, as the foliage turns striking shades of bright red and purple in the fall and persisting into the winter. It can be aggressive in the garden, and is best planted in wilder areas of the landscape, trained on a trellis, or planted at the top of a rock wall where it can trail down gracefully. Its extensive, fibrous roots stabilize soil and prevent erosion on hillsides, and it is useful as a pioneer species in revegetating barren and disturbed sites.

Sun Exposure: Part shade to full sun
Soil & Moisture: Moist, well-drained soils. Tolerant to a variety of soil types.
Mature Size: 1'-3' tall, trailing stems reaching up to 20' long
Bloom Time: Spring
Edible: Yes
Wildlife Value: Attracts beneficial insects and pollinators including native bees and butterflies. Swallowtail butterfly host plant. Fruits are eaten by many birds and mammals. Provides cover and nesting sites.
Native Range & Habitat: Open forests, forest edges, meadows, streambanks, and disturbed areas, from low to middle elevation. Native to western North America from British Columbia, south to Mexico.
Other Names: Pacific blackberry, California blackberry