Hi, I’m Ferb Vu. Over the years, I’ve worked with a variety of plants, from natives to exotics. But one plant that really left a mark—literally and figuratively—is Rubus Armeniacus, also known as Himalayan Blackberry. It’s a tough, thorny, aggressive bramble that’s loved by foragers and hated by ecologists.
I’ve fielded a lot of questions about this plant. So here’s my take, based on personal experience, research, and the cuts on my arms.
What Is Rubus Armeniacus?
Rubus Armeniacus is a sprawling, perennial shrub in the Rosaceae family, the same group that gives us roses, raspberries, and apples. It’s native to Western Europe and was introduced to North America in the late 1800s for its fruit.
The plant has arching canes that root wherever they touch the ground. It thrives in disturbed soils, along roadsides, riverbanks, and abandoned lots. If there’s sun and some moisture, this plant will grow—and take over.
Is Rubus Armeniacus Edible?
Yes, the berries are very edible and downright delicious. I’ve picked bowls of them in late summer. The taste is sweet and slightly tart, especially when fully ripe. They’re excellent in pies, jams, and smoothies. But beware—those thorns don’t forgive. I always wear gloves and long sleeves when I harvest.
The young shoots are edible too. Peeled and eaten raw or steamed, they taste a bit like asparagus. Still, most people go for the berries.
Is It Invasive?
Absolutely. Rubus Armeniacus is one of the worst invasive species in the Pacific Northwest. It outcompetes native plants like Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) and Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus). Its dense thickets smother saplings, native grasses, and everything in between.
I’ve seen it form impenetrable walls over 10 feet tall. Birds spread the seeds, and the plant roots wherever its cane tips touch the ground. I once cleared a 20-by-30-foot patch—only to find it regrowing within weeks.
How Can I Tell It Apart from Native Blackberries?
Good question. I’ve learned to distinguish it by these traits:
- Five leaflets per compound leaf
- Large, deeply ridged canes with robust, backward-curving thorns
- White to pinkish flowers with five petals in clusters
- Canes can grow up to 40 feet
In contrast, native Trailing Blackberry (Rubus ursinus) has three leaflets, thinner stems, and more delicate growth habits. Its fruit is smaller and often more flavorful.
How Do You Control or Remove Rubus Armeniacus?
It’s not easy. I’ve tried several methods, and here’s what I’ve learned:
- Manual removal: Cut canes close to the ground and dig out the roots. But you have to get every piece of root. Even a small segment can regenerate.
- Smothering: Covering with thick black plastic or cardboard and mulch can weaken it over time.
- Goats: I’ve seen land managers use goats to eat down new shoots. It’s effective, but temporary.
- Herbicides: Glyphosate works if applied to fresh-cut stumps or leaves, but it must be used carefully.
Persistence is key. Expect a 2-3 year battle for even small infestations.
Is Rubus Armeniacus Ever Useful?
Yes, surprisingly. Besides the fruit, it offers erosion control on steep slopes. Its dense roots hold soil in place. It also provides habitat for birds and small mammals—though often at the expense of native diversity.
I’ve used it as a natural fence in some rural projects where nothing else could survive. But it requires boundaries. If left unchecked, it turns from ally to enemy fast.
How Does It Compare to Rubus Fruticosus?
Rubus Armeniacus is often lumped with Rubus fruticosus, a complex of blackberry species in Europe. Botanists once confused them, and even now, the names get swapped. But Armeniacus is more aggressive and tends to dominate in western North America.
Fruticosus is often slightly more manageable and doesn’t root at cane tips as readily. Its berries are also smaller in most cases.
Can You Grow It in a Garden?
Yes, but I don’t recommend it unless you want a monster. It spreads fast, roots deeply, and resents being tamed. If you absolutely must, grow it in raised beds or containers, and prune it aggressively.
There are better cultivated blackberries—like Rubus ‘Chester’ or ‘Triple Crown’—that offer sweet fruit without the invasion.
What Native Alternatives Do I Recommend?
If you’re in North America and want a thornless or native option, consider:
- Rubus ursinus (Pacific blackberry): smaller, sweeter fruit; more delicate
- Rubus leucodermis (Blackcap raspberry): good for wildlife and jams
- Rubus parviflorus (Thimbleberry): large leaves, edible red fruit, non-invasive
All three offer habitat benefits and don’t take over your property.
Final Thoughts
Rubus Armeniacus is a plant I respect but don’t love. It feeds the birds, fills your basket, and fights erosion—but it also crowds out native species, scars your arms, and clings to every inch of disturbed land.
I’ve battled it with machetes, shovels, and sweat. I’ve also picked some of the best blackberries of my life from its branches. It’s a reminder of how fast a good idea (imported fruit) can become a wild problem if we’re not paying attention.
If i die, water my plants!
