Rubus leucodermis seeds (Blackcap Raspberry)

Description

PNW native shrub with berries delicious enough to get into a “fisticuffs” with the local bear.  Taste is reminiscent of thimble berry with a touch of blackberry.  Darkest purple-almost black fruit are borne on second year canes so keep this in mind when pruning.  Gorgeous near white bark.  Wicked thorns rank close to Rosa rugosa for prickliness but that’s Mother Nature’s way of rewarding the bold.  Prefers average well drained soils and full hot sun.  Self fertile.

• Seed Count: 35-40
• Collection Date: July 2024
• Hardiness Zone: 5-9
• Height and Width: 2m x 2m
• Germination test type: float
• Family: Rosaceae

How to germinate Rubus leucodermis seeds:

Soak seed 12-24 hours in warm water, mix with a little sand to sow thinly and evenly onto a humus rich medium. Barely cover with a layer of humus and mist well. Cold stratify at 3-5C for 4-5 months then give 15-20 C to germinate. Be aware that the small seedlings cannot break through crusted soils so keep the medium surface loose via mulch. Seedlings do best in a shady cool location in their first year. Do not let the medium dry out for the first year.