Rubus permixtus Blanch.
Rubus permixtus, commonly known as the Ningxia raspberry, is a multi-stemmed shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to China and is found in abundance in Ningxia province, for which it is named.
General Appearance
The Ningxia raspberry is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 1.5-2 meters. It has a spreading habit and forms dense thickets due to its ability to reproduce by vegetative means. The stems are biennial and are covered with a grayish-brown bark that has numerous prickles. The leaves are compound and trifoliate with serrated margins. They are green on the upper surface and paler on the lower surface.
The flowers are produced in late spring or early summer and are pinkish-white in color. The fruits are aggregate drupes and ripen in late summer or early fall. They are dark red to black in color and have a sweet flavor.
Common Names
The Ningxia raspberry is known by several common names, including the Ningxia red raspberry, Chinese Raspberry, and ???? huo jian feng zi (which refers to the sharp prickles on the stem).
Uses
The fruits of Rubus permixtus are highly valued for their nutritional and medicinal benefits. They are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In traditional Chinese medicine, the fruit is used to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, fatigue, and anemia, among others. The fruit is also used to make wine, jams, and other preserves.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the Ningxia raspberry is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive flowers and berries.
Growth Conditions for Rubus permixtus Blanch.
Light Requirements: Rubus permixtus Blanch. typically grows in full sun to partial shade. In areas with higher temperatures, partial shade may be preferred to protect the plant from excessive heat and sun scorch.
Temperature Requirements: Rubus permixtus Blanch. prefers moderate to cool temperatures. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9 and can tolerate temperatures down to -5°F (-20°C) in winter. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 55°F (13°C) to 85°F (29°C).
Soil Requirements: Rubus permixtus Blanch. prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant prefers soils rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils, but performs best in fertile soil with good drainage.
Water Requirements: Rubus permixtus Blanch. requires moderate watering, with a preference for well-drained soils that do not become waterlogged. The plant prefers consistent moisture, but excessive watering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Watering should be reduced during the plant's dormant stage in winter.
Fertilizer Requirements: Rubus permixtus Blanch. benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced NPK fertilizer. Fertilization should be carried out during the early spring growing season and repeated every 4-6 weeks until late summer. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced fruiting.
Cultivation Methods
Rubus permixtus Blanch. is relatively easy to cultivate and grow. It prefers a well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 and thrives in full sun to partial shade. This plant grows vigorously and produces many running shoots, which spread quickly and can become invasive. Therefore, it's essential to plant Rubus permixtus Blanch. in a contained area or consider using a barrier to prevent it from spreading.
Watering Needs
Like most plants, Rubus permixtus Blanch. requires adequate water to grow and produce fruit. However, too much water can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It's best to water this plant moderately, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. During dry spells or hotter weather, it may be necessary to water the plant more frequently to maintain soil moisture.
Fertilization
Rubus permixtus Blanch. is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to produce a bountiful harvest. It's best to apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in midsummer. You can also use compost as a top dressing to provide a slow-release fertilizer throughout the growing season. Be careful not to apply too much nitrogen, which can result in excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning Rubus permixtus Blanch. is essential to maintain plant health and to improve fruit production. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring when the plant is still dormant. The objective is to remove any dead or diseased wood and thin out overcrowded canes. Leave four to six of the healthiest canes per plant, and remove any canes that were produced the previous year. This practice will encourage new growth and abundant fruit production.
Propagation of Rubus permixtus Blanch.
Rubus permixtus Blanch. can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cutting propagation, and division propagation.
Seed propagation
Seeds are the primary and easiest method of propagating Rubus permixtus Blanch. The ripe fruit can be collected, cleaned, and the seeds left to dry for a day or two. The seeds should be sown in a mixture of compost and perlite in a propagator or a pot with a plastic bag covering it. The pot should be kept moist and in bright, indirect sunlight. Germination should occur in 14 to 28 days, and seedlings should be transplanted after a year.
Stem cutting propagation
Another propagation method is stem cutting. The best time to take stem cuttings is in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The stem cuttings should be taken with a sharp pair of scissors and should be at least 4-6 inches long. The cutting's bottom should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a pot with compost and perlite mix. The pot should be kept in a bright, sheltered area and kept moist. The cutting will root in 6-8 weeks, and the plant can be transplanted after a year.
Division propagation
Division propagation is the easiest way to propagate Rubus permixtus Blanch. The plant can be divided into smaller pieces during its dormant season. The plant should be dug up, and the root system needs to be separated into smaller pieces. Each piece can then be replanted in a new pot or bed with compost and perlite or well-draining soil, kept moist, and in a bright, sheltered area. The plant should start growing in the following spring, and no transplanting is needed.
Disease and Pest Management for Rubus permixtus Blanch.
Rubus permixtus Blanch, which is commonly known as the mixed blackberry, hails from the family Rosaceae. It is a deciduous plant that has woody stems, thorns, and produces juicy edible fruits. To keep the plant healthy and productive, it is essential to understand some of the common diseases and pests that might endanger it, as well as proven ways to manage such diseases and pests.
Common diseases that affect Rubus permixtus Blanch.
Cane blight: Cane blight is a common disease that affects the stems or canes of the Rubus permixtus Blanch plant. This disease is caused by the fungus Leptosphaeria coniothyrium, which causes the canes to wither and die. To manage cane blight, it is essential to prune off the affected canes, disinfecting your tools between each cut with alcohol or a 10% bleach solution. Also, it would be best to burn, bury, or dispose of the pruned canes in a landfill.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and fruits of Rubus permixtus Blanch. The disease is characterized by small, sunken spots that develop on the leaves and later expand, causing the leaves to wither and die. To manage anthracnose, it is essential to prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them far from the garden in a landfill. Also, ensure that the plants are not overcrowded and that there is adequate air circulation to prevent high humidity levels that favor the growth of the fungus.
Common pests that affect Rubus permixtus Blanch.
Spotted wing drosophila: The spotted wing drosophila (SWD) is a tiny fly that is responsible for the damage to the fruits of Rubus permixtus Blanch. These pests are attracted to the fruits, where they lay their eggs on the surface, leading to the infestation of the fruit. To control SWD, it is essential to monitor your plants regularly, particularly during the fruiting period. Use traps, insecticides, and biological control agents to nip the infestation in the bud and stop it from spreading to the rest of the garden.
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that live on the underside of the leaves of Rubus permixtus Blanch. These pests suck the sap present in the leaves, causing them to dry up, turn yellow, and drop off. To manage spider mites, it is essential to keep the leaves wet through regular watering. You can also use insecticidal soap, neem oil or simple homemade mixture of water and dish soap to control spider mites.
Overall, taking care of Rubus permixtus Blanch is a rewarding experience that is guaranteed to yield juicy fruits. Be vigilant against pests and diseases, and you'll enjoy the fresh berries for the whole season.
