Bramble - Definition and Overview

Bramble refers to thorny plants of the genus Rubus, in the rose family, Rosaceae. Brambles include blackberries, loganberries, and other plants.

Bramble bushes have a distinctive growth form. They send up long, arching canes that do not flower or set fruit until the second year. Many types of brambles set edible fruit. Many types also have vicious, recurved thorns that dig into clothing and flesh when the victim tries to pull away from them. Some types also have hair-like thorns.

Brambles usually have trifoliate or palmately-compound leaves. Brambles are important food plants for the larvae of several species of Lepidoptera including Emperor Moth, Peach Blossom and Buff Arches.

Brambles are not to be confused with briers, which are of the genus Smilax and quite unrelated, though they are also thorny.

See also

• Bramble fruit