Scientific Name

Rubus ulmifolius
Family: Rosaceae

Flowering Time

November to January. White flowers in terminal pannicles.

Habitat

First recorded in Australia in 1843, Blackberry is now a serious problem in Australian pasture land and bushland. Grows as either a scrambling vine that chokes Australian native plants or in dense thickets in pastures, wastelands and disturbed bushland.

Fruits (present as a black drupe) are edible, however be aware of any local control measures such as foliar spray of herbicide.

Eradication

Difficult to eradicate due to substantial woody root system. Control can include registered herbicides such as Garlon, Brush-Off, Grazon or Roundup used as a diluted foliar spray. Follow all directions on the label.

Mechanical removal can work, however the ability of the plant to re-shoot from disturbed roots will make eradication require several treatments.

References

Robinson, L. (1991). Field Guide to the Native Plants of Sydney. 2nd ed. Kangaroo Press, Roseville.