Dewberry

18. Dewberry

Rubus ursinus

Family:

Rose Family

Habitat:

Open areas, logged areas

Characteristics:

1. Very prickly trailing vines grow to 18 feet.

2. White petals about 1/2 inch long surround many long stamens or pistils (unisexual flowers). April through July blooming times.

3. Double toothed margins identify leaflet triads.

4. Sweet, juicy dark berries about 1 inch long.

Uses:

1. Most flavorful of blackberries. Only native blackberry in the northwest. Edible raw or cooked in pies or jams.

2. Trailing nature privides good erosion control. Undesirable for gardens.

3. Hybridized as Loganberry, Youngberry and Boysenberry.