Rubus armeniacus - Himalayan Giant
The distinctive chalky-looking pale leaf underside
The Himalayan Giant is an exception to the rule that Brambles are difficult to identify. Its habit is the most distinctive thing about it. New growth arches high, without the support of shrubs or trees. It creates dense shade and can take over substantial areas. The chalky-looking pale underside to the leaves confirms the identification; there are a few other Brambles with pale undersides to their leaves, but none that approach its vigour.
It is by far the commonest Bramble local to me and in many urban and suburban areas, but records do not reflect how widespread it is because it has usually been recorded as a due to the expertise needed to identify most species.
It self seeds readily and has escaped from cultivation. It crops heavily and the fruit are typically quite large.
Rubus armeniacus - Himalayan Giant
The distinctive chalky-looking pale leaf underside
The Himalayan Giant is an exception to the rule that Brambles are difficult to identify. Its habit is the most distinctive thing about it. New growth arches high, without the support of shrubs or trees. It creates dense shade and can take over substantial areas. The chalky-looking pale underside to the leaves confirms the identification; there are a few other Brambles with pale undersides to their leaves, but none that approach its vigour.
It is by far the commonest Bramble local to me and in many urban and suburban areas, but records do not reflect how widespread it is because it has usually been recorded as a due to the expertise needed to identify most species.
It self seeds readily and has escaped from cultivation. It crops heavily and the fruit are typically quite large.