BLACK RASPBERRY, BLACK CAP Rubus occidentalis
Rubus occidentalis is native to eastern North America. Its common name black raspberry is shared with other closely related species. Other names occasionally used include bear's eye blackberry, black cap, black cap raspberry, and scotch cap.
Rubus occidentalis is a deciduous shrub growing to 2 to 3 metres (6.6 to 9.8 ft) tall. The round-shaped fruit is a 12-to-15-millimetre (0.47 to 0.59 in) diameter aggregation of drupelets; it is edible, and has a high content of anthocyanins and ellagic acid.
The black raspberry is related to the red raspberry Rubus idaeus and Rubus strigosus, sharing the white underside of leaves, and fruit that readily detaches from the carpel.
The plant grows in disturbed areas, especially those that are logged or cut. It is also found in meadows, and near streams and lakes, trails or roadways. The native range of Rubus occidentalis extends as far east as New Brunswick, as far west as Nebraska, as far north as Quebec, and as far south as Mississippi.
The fresh berries are marketed in season. The berries are often dried or frozen, made into purées and juices, or processed as colorants. Two well-known liqueurs based predominantly on black raspberry fruit include France's Chambord Liqueur Royale de France and South Korea's various kinds of Bokbunja-ju.
Type: Hardy shrub
Location: Sun or part sun
Hardiness zones: 3-8
Seeds per pack: 10
Germination: Use a sterile seed-start mix. Surface sow in a pot. Water, and place in plastic, and in the fridge for 90 days for stratification. Then bring to warmth for them to germinate. Keep continually moist.
