Rubus thibetanus

Rubus thibetanus is a clump-forming shrub with dense, thorny branches that makes an excellent security bush. This robust deciduous shrub looks good at the back of a mixed border, where it will add a lot of seasonal value. Its silvery stems go well with blue-flowered spring bulbs and the ghostly silver birch stems. Throughout the spring, fern-like green leaves with sivery undersides cover the stems, followed by little purple flowers borne singly from the leaf axils in the summer. By October, black, inedible fruits have replaced the blossoms and will last into the winter unless eaten by birds. Once the leaves have dropped, this shrub makes a striking statement in the winter garden. The magnificent white blossom on the arching branches brightens drab winter days. Height and spread: 2m (6').