Blackcap raspberry
Rubus occidentalis
Black raspberry is an arching cane shrub with prickles and powdery, pale-coated stems. Fruits turn from red to purple-black as they ripen and have a hollow centre when picked.
Native range
Eastern North America.
Typical season
Early summer reference; check local ripeness and conditions.
Identification
Blackcap is a common name for Rubus occidentalis in eastern North America. Look for toothed leaflets, arching prickly canes and aggregate fruit. A photograph is still needed to identify the plant at a particular pin.