 Wineberry (Rubus phoenicolasius) is a deciduous, woody shrub with arching stems that reach 3 to 6 feet. The stems and petioles are covered in dense reddish glandular hairs and prickles with alternating heart-shaped leaflets that have serrated edges, purplish veins, and silvery white hairs on the leaflets' undersides. Small green flowers with white petals and reddish hairs occur in spring. The very edible raspberry-like fruit ripens to a bright, clear red in June and July.
Wineberry’s rapid growth poses a threat to native plants by creating dense patches that crowd out desirable species. It spreads not only vegetatively by tip-rooting but also by seeds that are transported by birds and mammals, including humans, who seek out the delicious fruits. Wineberry is difficult to control. Small infestations can be handled by pulling individual plants, if the soil is moist, or by digging them out with a shovel or spading fork. Comments are closed.
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