Salmonberry Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double' (d)
ABOUT
Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double' is commonly known as the salmonberry, specifically a cultivar with ornamental qualities. Its most striking feature is its flowers, which are double, meaning they have extra petals, and exhibit a rich, rosy-pink hue that makes them stand out in the garden. Unlike the wild salmonberry with single petals, the 'Olympic Double' has a fuller and more opulent bloom, creating a showy display when in flower. The leaves of the salmonberry are tri-foliate, consisting of three leaflets per leaf group, and they have a deep green color that provides a lush backdrop for the bright flowers. The leaf edges are serrated, giving them a slightly jagged appearance, and the surface is somewhat textured. The stems of the salmonberry are known to have small thorns, which are adapted to protect the plant but can also add to the overall texture of the plant in a landscape setting. In terms of fruit, which follows the flowering period, the salmonberry is named for the orange to salmon-colored berries it produces, which are similar in shape to raspberries and loved by both wildlife and people for their sweet taste. Overall, the Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double' is admired for its decorative flowers, lush foliage, and attractive berries, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color and interest to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Salmonberry, Olympic Double Salmonberry, Double-Flowering Salmonberry
Common names
Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double'
ToxicityTo humans
Salmonberry is generally not considered poisonous to humans. In fact, the fruit of salmonberry plants is edible and often enjoyed by people who forage. There are no widespread reports of toxicity or poisoning from ingesting the leaves, stems, or flowers of salmonberry plants in humans. As with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist, and it's always best to exercise caution and consult with a physician if any adverse reactions occur after handling or consuming parts of the plant.
To pets
Salmonberry is generally not considered toxic to pets. The fruit is non-toxic and can be consumed by dogs and cats. There is no prevalent information suggesting that the leaves, stems, or flowers of the salmonberry plant cause poisoning in pets. However, as with any plant material, ingestion in large quantities could potentially cause mild stomach upset due to the fiber content or natural plant chemicals. If your pet shows any signs of illness after ingesting salmonberry, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double' is known for its attractive double flowers that provide a decorative appeal to gardens.
- Wildlife Habitat: The plant serves as a habitat and food source for various wildlife species, including birds and beneficial insects.
- Low Maintenance: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established, making it a practical choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Edible Fruit: Produces edible fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, cooked, or made into preserves, offering a delightful homegrown treat.
- Tolerant of Various Conditions: This plant can grow in a range of soil types and is tolerant of partial shade, providing flexibility in garden placement.
- Naturalization: Capable of spreading and naturalizing, it is suitable for covering large areas and creating dense thickets that can help with erosion control.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers multi-season interest from early spring flowers to late-season fruits and autumn foliage color.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Sustainable Textile Dyes: Leaves and stems of the Salmonberry plant can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, yielding a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- Edible Arrangements: The doubled flowers of the ornamental cultivar 'Olympic Double' can be used to decorate cakes and desserts, although they themselves are not edible.
- Traditional Tool Making: Indigenous tribes historically used the straight, slender stems of Salmonberry plants for making fishing hooks and needles.
- Wildlife Gardening: Planting Salmonberry can attract and feed birds, bees, and other wildlife, contributing to biodiversity in garden ecosystems.
- Natural Barriers: Its brambly growth habit allows Salmonberry to be used for creating natural, impenetrable hedges or barriers in landscaping.
- Horticultural Crafts: Flexible young Salmonberry stems can be used in the craft of basket weaving, making lightweight and naturally colored baskets.
- Erosion Control: Salmonberry’s extensive root system makes it suitable for planting on slopes or areas prone to erosion, helping stabilize soil.
- Companion Planting: As a native plant, Salmonberry can be integrated into edible gardens to increase ecological diversity and potentially reduce pest issues.
- Photography Subject: With its striking double flowers, the 'Olympic Double' Salmonberry is an excellent subject for botanical photography enthusiasts.
- Living Structures: Over time, with guided training and pruning, Salmonberry plants can be shaped into living arches or other garden features.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Salmonberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Salmonberry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double', commonly known as Salmonberry, is admired for its double flowers and vibrant color, symbolizing natural beauty and appreciation for the aesthetics in nature.
- Prosperity: The Salmonberry's fruitfulness and vigorous growth often represent abundance and the potential for prosperity.
- Bounty of Nature: As a plant that produces edible berries, Salmonberry stands as a symbol for the generosity of nature and the sustenance it provides to both animals and humans.
- Adaptability: With its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, the Salmonberry signifies resilience and adaptability in life.
WaterSalmonberry (Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double') prefers consistent moisture, so it is important to water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Typically, this means watering deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant depending on the weather conditions and soil type. During hot or dry spells, increase the frequency to ensure the plant stays adequately hydrated. Over the winter, reduce watering since the plant will not need as much. Be cautious not to overwater as too much moisture can lead to root rot.
LightSalmonberry thrives in a spot with full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would receive morning sunlight, which is less intense, and partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon. It can tolerate full sun, but in regions with very hot summers, providing some afternoon shade will help prevent stress.
TemperatureSalmonberry plants are quite cold hardy and can tolerate winter temperatures as low as 20° Fahrenheit, making them suitable for many northern climates. They perform best in a temperature range from 60°F to 75°F during the growing season. Extreme heat above 90°F may stress the plant, so providing some shade in hotter climates can be beneficial.
PruningPrune the Salmonberry in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. This is to remove dead or diseased wood, to shape the plant, and to encourage fresh growth and better air circulation. Pruning should be done annually, and you can also remove some of the oldest canes to promote the growth of new ones for better fruit production.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSalmonberry, or Rubus spectabilis 'Olympic Double', thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for salmonberry would include loamy garden soil, well-rotted compost, and peat moss to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingSalmonberry does not typically require frequent repotting. It can be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound to provide fresh nutrients and room for growth.
Humidity & MistingSalmonberry prefers moderate humidity levels around 40-60%, which is usually provided by the natural outdoor environment, reducing the need for specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep salmonberry in a bright spot and prune regularly to manage growth.
Outdoor
Plant in partly sunny area with space for spreading out.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleSalmonberry 'Olympic Double' begins its life as a seed, often dispersed by wildlife or through human intervention, germinating when conditions are right, usually requiring a period of stratification to break dormancy. Upon germination, it develops into a seedling with a simple root system and a small rosette of leaves as it establishes itself. As the plant matures, it develops canes that may live for several years, during which it produces more intricate leaves and begins vegetative growth, followed by flowering typically in early spring to summer. The double flowers, unlike the single flowers of the typical form, are ornamental and may not produce fruit as regularly. If conditions allow, this perennial might occasionally form small red-orange berries which are generally not as abundant as those of the non-double cultivated varieties or wild types. Over its lifespan, which can be several years, the plant spreads vegetatively via rhizomes, creating dense thickets, and will continue cycling through growth, flowering, and potential fruiting annually with the proper seasonal cues.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Salmonberry 'Olympic Double' can be propagated primarily by softwood cuttings. This method is typically carried out in spring to early summer, when new growth is soft and green. Cuttings are taken from the current year's growth, usually from late May to June, when they're about 4-6 inches long. Leaves on the lower half are removed, and the base of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cuttings are then placed in a moistened mix of peat and perlite, ensuring at least one node is buried where leaves were removed. The environment should be kept humid by covering the cuttings with a plastic dome or bag, and placed in indirect light. Roots usually develop within a few weeks to a month, after which the new plants can be acclimated to less humid conditions and eventually transplanted outside.
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