Rubus repens

The Genus Rubus includes blackberry, dewberry, and raspberry and most members of the Genus share the traits of thorny or bristly stems and compound leaves. Also, flowers and fruit appear on last season’s canes (branches), seldom on new shoots, which means one must be cautious when pruning and not remove the canes that will yield next year's berries. There are differences, however, among species; for example, some are erect or arching shrubs up to 8 feet high and others trail on the ground like vines. Some, such as dewberries, produce fruits in the spring while blackberries and raspberries fruit during the summer. In general, Genus Rubus contains some of the most important plants for wildlife in the southeast

Rubus repens, also known as False violet, is a native perennial in the Roseaceae family. It is sometimes identified as the only species in the genus Dalibarda, which is closely allied with the genus Rubus. The leaves resemble violets, hence the common name. The flowers, however, are not asymmetrical like violets, rather, they have 5 radial petals like all members of the rose family. The False violet grows best in boggy areas with wet soils or in woodlands in partial to full shade. The plant tends to be low, spreading by runners with leaves and flowers on separate stalks from the runner and has a height of 2 to 5 inches. The fruit is edible, but small and dry. If fruit is desired, there are better choices in the Rubus genus. This plant is listed as endangered in North Carolina and several other states.

This plant is moderately resistant to damage from deer. It provides excellent cover year round for birds and small mammals and butterflies and other insects are attracted to the blooms. Its fruits are eaten by songbirds, small mammals, foxes, raccoons, and black bears. During the winter, birds and small mammals eat the seeds left from rotted fruit. White-tailed deer and rabbits browse the leaves.

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems:

No known diseases or other problems.