Many Bushcarers in the Adelaide Hills would be familiar with this weed. Blackberry thickets are a common weed and because birds and foxes eat the berries, this species can invade good bushland.
Blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius) is a prickly plant that grows canes which arch over and take root or layer. Its flowers are white; flowering times are between November and February. Fruits can be ripe by late January.
Be careful!
It is important to wear good protective clothing when working on blackberry. Begin by cutting back the canes, so that you are able to get to the main stems. These can then be easily swabbed with neat Glyphosate. Several Bushcarers have commented that they have just cut back blackberry, cut back any regrowth and the plants have eventually died.
Beware of wildlife!
Many native birds use blackberry as habitat. Ensure that there are no nests in the area to be treated before beginning work. Don't over clear large thickets, but ensure that there is suitable replacement habitat before removing the whole of large thickets. As with all weeds, it is easier to stop any infestations getting too large.
Check the species - don't make a mistake
Native plants that can be removed by mistake are Rubus parvifolius (small-leave raspberry) which is now considered uncommon in the Mt. Lofty Ranges. This species has deep pink flowers and the stems are not as stiff. The prickles aren't as long as with the introduced blackberry. If you're in any doubt at all, leave the plant alone and have it identified by your Regional Co-ordinator.
Andrew Allanson
