Rubus corylifolius
Rubus corylifoliusfam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 3220 — Rubus corylifolius
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IOverview
Overview
Rubus corylifolius, commonly known as the Japanese wineberry or thimbleberry, belongs to the Rosaceae family and is native to several European countries including France, Great Britain, Italy, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Finland, and Germany. This deciduous shrub thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various soil types such as sandy, medium, and clay. Known for its edible fruit, which are similar to raspberries but form a cup-like shape, the plant is both ornamental and useful, often cultivated for its berries. Its distinctive features include large, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of white or pink flowers that precede the fruiting season.
Quick answers
What is Rubus corylifolius?
Rubus corylifolius, commonly known as the Japanese wineberry or thimbleberry, belongs to the Rosaceae family and is native to several European countries including France, Great Britain, Italy, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Finland, and Germany.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Used traditionally for digestive issues.
Skin Soother
skindecoction
Applied externally for soothing skin conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Rubus corylifolius thrives in full to partial sunlight and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). The plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to France, Great Britain, Italy, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, and Finland. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Propagation can occur through seeds or by dividing established plants. Harvest the edible fruit for a delicious treat.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
For first-time growers
How to grow Rubus corylifolius for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and adaptable approach to growing Skip, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A suitable location, seeds or young plants, garden tools like a spade and trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in autumn before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5; amend as needed for your local conditions.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors, then transplant them outdoors after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist; mulch around the base for added moisture retention and weed control.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Prune annually in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and health.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune plants in late winter before new growth begins; harvest fruit when ripe, typically from mid-summer to fall.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, neglecting regular pruning, planting in poorly drained soil, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Rubus corylifolius is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It thrives in full to partial sun with moist soil, making it suitable for gardens and natural landscapes in its native range across Europe.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
12 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
12 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 12 native
Europe11 regions
native (11)AustriaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyIrelandItalyNetherlandsNorwaySwedenUnited Kingdom
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 3220744c-9352-49d5-ba9d-79a8df09d4bc
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