Red raspberry

Red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) is a perennial subshrub known for its edible and medicinal uses. Native to regions including Alaska, Albania, Austria, and Belarus, it has been naturalized in many parts of the world such as North America and Europe. The plant thrives in moist, light to heavy soil with a pH between 5 and 7.5, making it adaptable but preferring well-drained conditions. Red raspberries can grow up to 2 meters tall and spread to about 1.5 meters wide, forming dense clumps. Both the fruit and various parts of the plant are edible, with roots, shoots, and stems being used in culinary applications. Medicinally, red raspberry leaves have a long history of use, particularly for their astringent properties, which make them useful in topical treatments for inflamed gums and skin conditions.