Download Blackberry – Rubus fruticosis

Weeds of Wurundjeri Walk
Botanical Name: Rubus fruticosus spp. agg
Common Name: Blackberry
Origin:
Europe
Photo/Line Drawing:
(photo courtesy Ian Moodie)
Blackberry Rubus fruticosis
Page 1
Habit: Scrambling, dense, prickly thicket-forming bush up to 2 metres
high (unsupported). Widespread and aggressive especially adjacent to
waterways.
However provides excellent refuge for small native birds (e.g. Blue
Wrens)
Description:
 Dark green, rough leaves
 White/pink flowers late Spring-Summer
 Green fruit maturing to black edible berries in late Summer –Autumn
 Blackberries reproduce by seed but also via severed root parts,
cuttings or where canes contact the soil (and form roots)
Seed Dispersal: spread by birds and mammals eating berries and
voiding in droppings/scats
Location(s) in Wurundjeri Walk:
Along waterways especially between the Samuel Road footbridge and
the Rain-garden
Indigenous plant look-alikes:
None
Weed Management/Control Methods:
1. A 2-3 year management plan is required to eradicate this noxious
weed.
2. Using thick gloves and protective clothing, cut and slash back
canes; dig out crown and roots and bag/dispose properly
3. Cut and paint with herbicide is OK
4. Herbicide spraying suitable for large infestations (Council
responsibility). Don’t spray when Blackberry is fruiting. Sprayed
canes can be left to rot on site.
This Weed Information Sheet was prepared by Wurundjeri Walk Advisory Committee, supported by a
Melbourne Water Community Grant.
Wurundjeri Walk Advisory Committee is appointed by Whitehorse Council, Victoria.
Blackberry Rubus fruticosis
Page 2