Blackberry
(Scientific Name: Rubus
species)
Description:
All varieties have prickly vines and edible fruits. Some have
weak, trailing stems up to 30 feet long; others have stout, erect or
arching stems which form dense thickets. All are armed with very
sharp prickles. Showy, white-to-pinkish flowers appear in May and
June; fruit 1/2-1 inch long is dark purple or black.
Habitat:
Open areas along fields, fences and in burned-over areas or where
the ground has been recently disturbed. Widely distributed
throughout North America. Berries ripen in late summer.
Uses: Blackberries are one of our most
valuable wild fruits. Of excellent flavor, they make exceptional
jams, jellies, juice, pies and wine. In the spring before the
prickles harden, young tender shoots can be peeled and eaten raw in
salads or cooked like asparagus.
