About Rubus parvifolius L.
Rubus parvifolius L., commonly known as Japanese bramble, Australian raspberry in the United States, and native raspberry in Australia, is a plant species belonging to the rose family. It is a scrambling shrub native to eastern Asia – specifically China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam – and Australia, and has become naturalized in a small number of scattered locations across the United States. This shrub can grow up to 2 meters tall, with arching branches that bear curved prickles. Young stems are covered in fine short hairs, and lose this hairiness as they mature. Its leaves are pinnate, made up of 3 to 5 toothed leaflets. It produces many flowers that grow in clusters at the tips of stems, with petals that are either red or pink. Its red fruit reaches 1 centimeter in width. The red fruit of this species has a pleasant flavor, and can be eaten raw or processed into sauces and jams. The dried fruit of Rubus parvifolius L. is used in traditional Chinese medicine.
