I was wondering if any of you knew of the history of a blackberry? Well some of you may and others maybe not! The blackberry is an edible fruit produced by Rubus fruticosus or any of several hybrids between that species and others of Rubus genus in the Rosaceae family. The term ‘bramble’, a word meaning any impenetrable scrub, has traditionally been applied specifically to the blackberry or its products, though in the United States it applies to all members of the Rubus genus. The (usually) black fruit is not a true berry; botanically it is termed an aggregate fruit, composed of small drupelets. It is a widespread and well-known group of over 375 species, many of which are closely related apomictic microspecies native throughout the temperate Northern Hemisphere and South America. Some of these words you probably can’t understand but I wanted to share what kind of fruit the Blackberry is.
The so-called blackberries here in Northern CA, are actually Himalayan blackberries, which are a naturalized European import. They were first introduced to the Pacific Northwest as a crop plant in the 1800's, and have since invaded areas of the region. They are highly invasive, nearly impossible to control, in the pastures, along roadsides and creek banks. They can even be found growing through the cracks in pavement. They overtake native understory vegetation and prevent the establishment of native plants and trees. Their large, impenetrable thickets can block wildlife access to water and other resources. True native blackberries are a much less common sight. The plants are more compact and less invasive. They bear fruit earlier in the season, than the Himalayan's, and usually stop fruiting around the time the Himalayans are starting. Himalayan blackberries are much larger and jucier than natives and the fruit is readily visible on the plants, whereas native berries are smaller, and more hidden by the plant's leaves.
With blackberries being so plentiful here it's hard to understand why anyone would want to plant them. Anyone planning to plant blackberries in the Pacific Northwest should choose the variety carefully, or else run the risk of creating a monster in your garden, and possibly your whole neighborhood. I read lot's of cool stuff about our blackberries, in an article from Dave's Garden(;
In other news...Katie sold her chickens at the fair! She loved the experience so much that she has decided to show a pig next year.
Soo excited for school to start this Wednesday! I am so thankful for the opportunity to attend Waldorf of Mendocino County! This is going to be such an amazing year for me.
Fun Fact for the day: Did any of you know that the first pie invented was the Apple Pie? Yep, the first one made was in 1381, by Geoffrey Chaucer!
Song of the day: Lights by Ellie Goulding
Movie of the day: Bourne Legacy
“May all your crusts be round!”
xoxo Natalie*
