The purple-flowering raspberry is a type of raspberry bush with large showy flowers and no thorns or prickers to get in your way. The flowers on this bush will last throughout the summer, giving way to some tart, though still edible, small-sized berries. Also known as the thimbleberry or Rubus odoratus, this delightful bush can spread into large thickets.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Rubus odoratus, the purple-flowered raspberry, flowering raspberry, or Virginia raspberry, is a species of Rubus, native to eastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Ontario and Wisconsin, and south along the Appalachian Mountains as far as Georgia and Alabama.
Rubus odoratus is a shrub growing to 3 meters (10 feet) tall, with perennial, not biennial, stems (unlike many other species in the genus). Also, unlike most other related species this plant does not have thorns. The leaves are palmately lobed with five (rarely three or seven) lobes, up to 25 cm (10 inches) long and broad, superficially resembling maple leaves. The flowers are 3–5 cm (1.2–2 inches) in diameter, with five magenta or occasionally white petals; they are produced from early spring to early fall. The red edible fruit matures in late summer to early autumn, and resembles a large, flat raspberry with many drupelets, and is rather fuzzy to the touch and tongue.
This species is occasionally referred to as thimbleberry, a name more commonly associated with fellow North American species Rubus parviflorus.
Rubus odoratus is widely grown as an ornamental plant for its conspicuous flowers with a long flowering period. This plant likes partial shade, rich, slightly acid soil and moderate water. It is locally naturalized in parts of Washington state and also in Europe, notably south eastern England.

II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Although you can find some Rubus species under the forest canopy, purple-flowering raspberry loves sunlight. Full sun or partial shade (6-8 hours of sunshine) will be the best for it to thrive. Avoid too crowded bush to allow ample sunlight and air movement, which will prevent your plant from diseases.
Temperature
As a large genus, Rubus has a wide distribution range which means you are always likely to find a proper species or cultivar that grows well in your garden. Generally, Rubus species flourish in temperate zones, and adaptable to slightly harsh conditions. Select cultivars that may thrive in your garden, thus the preferable climate will encourage them to bear more edible fruits. Purple-flowering raspberry prefers moist to slightly dry conditions, so it is important to avoid waterlogging.
Watering
Originating from the understory of North American woodlands, purple-flowering raspberry thrives in moist environments and is adapted to moderate humidity levels. This species exhibits a preference for consistent moisture but can tolerate short dry spells, indicative of its native habitat’s variable water availability. Watering should be done once every 1-2 weeks, maintaining soil hydration without over-saturation. As an outdoor plant often found in partially shaded areas, purple-flowering raspberry benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture, particularly during its active growing season when water demands may increase.
Soil
Purple-flowering raspberry is not picky about soil, as long as the soil is slightly acidic and well-drained. The ideal soil pH range for it is 5.5–7 while a few species and cultivars of Rubus may tolerate slightly alkaline soil as well. Rich loamy soil mixing with some sandy soil can be a good option. Always remember to avoid the heavy clay soil because it can become soggy easily. Hilled soils that promote drainage can also be taken into consideration, instead of wet, flat fields.
Fertilizing
For optimal health, purple-flowering raspberry benefits from a balanced nutrition fertilizer during the growing season, switching to high nitrogen formulations early spring. Apply quarterly, with amounts following label instructions to boost growth, flowering, and vigor, while avoiding over-fertilization risks. Special consideration: cease fertilization in late summer to prepare purple-flowering raspberry for winter dormancy. Adjust schedules and quantities for younger plants, favoring lighter, more frequent feedings. An effective application involves soil integration, ensuring root-zone reach without direct foliage contact.
Pruning
Pruning is important for purple-flowering raspberry growers. Prune all canes that bore fruit this year down to the bottom right after harvest. All first-year canes should be cut about half to stimulate lateral growth from the side every late winter or early spring. Remove all suckers and trim overcrowded canes. Purple-flowering raspberry grown in patches must be pruned to ensure that individual canes are not touching to avoid disease infections. Be sure to remove any thinned or pruned canes from the field because old canes left on the ground can harbor disease.
Propagation
Purple-flowering raspberry propagates effectively through cutting and layering techniques, with success most easily achieved during autumn and winter seasons. This plant is relatively easy to propagate, and new growth is characterized by the emergence of tender shoots and leaves.
Transplanting
The optimal season to transplant purple-flowering raspberry is Spring to early summer (S2-S4), as this is when the plant can best establish roots before winter chill sets in. Choosing a location with partial shade and well-drained soil is key. It’s important to water purple-flowering raspberry frequently after transplanting to support growth.
Repotting
Repot purple-flowering raspberry every 2-3 years as it grows into a medium-sized bush with striking purple flowers. Best done in early spring to encourage vibrant growth. Choose a wide, well-draining pot to accommodate its spreading habit. Post-repotting, ensure purple-flowering raspberry receives consistent moisture and partial shade. A friendly reminder: this raspberry thrives with some love and care after repotting!
III. Uses and Benefits
The bright purple flowers of the purple-flowering raspberry bloom all throughout the summer, valued for the attractive way they show in contrast against the plant’s large, bright green leaves. These plants are used in a variety of gardens, from shade gardens to wild gardens. They can function as a border or as a plant that attracts butterflies, bees, and birds.
IV. Harvesting and Storage
Taste the fruit and it will tell you when it is time to harvest. Ripe fruits will be sweet and juicy. If they are still sour or tart, let them ripen a bit longer. Usually you can start harvesting from midsummer till mid-fall, according to varieties. You should harvest the fruits when all dews or raindrops are dry to prevent molds. They have a short shelf life, so refrigerate them after harvest without washing. As for some sour species, process them into delicious jams or jellies.