Atibulnak facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Atibulnak
Scientific classification
Genus:	Rubus
Species:	pectinellus

Rubus pectinellus, also known as atibulnak, is a type of plant in the rose family. It belongs to a group of plants called brambles, which are known for their tasty berries.

This plant grows naturally in several parts of Asia. You can find it in Japan, southern China, Taiwan, and the Philippines. It likes to grow in forests and valleys, usually in places that are quite high up, from about 700 to 3000 meters (2,300 to 9,800 feet) above sea level.

In Japan, it's called kobanofuyuichigo (コバノフユイチゴ). In China, people know it as huáng pào (黄泡). The fruits of the atibulnak plant are safe to eat. They have a pleasant, slightly sour taste and can be eaten raw or cooked. In the Philippines, people even eat the leaves as a vegetable!

What the Atibulnak Plant Looks Like

The atibulnak plant is a small, woody shrub that trails along the ground. It usually grows to be about 0.5 to 1 meter (1.6 to 3.3 feet) long.

Leaves and Stems

The leaves of the atibulnak plant are quite interesting. They can be shaped like a heart or have three distinct parts, almost like a clover. They feel rough and hairy, and their edges are serrated, meaning they have small, sharp teeth. Each leaf is about 3 to 6 centimeters (1.2 to 2.4 inches) wide. The leaves grow one after another along the stems. Both the leaves and the stems are covered with tiny spines.

Flowers and Fruits

The atibulnak plant produces pretty white flowers. Each flower is about 2 centimeters (0.8 inches) across. After the flowers bloom, they turn into fruits. These fruits are round and measure about 1.4 to 1.6 centimeters (0.55 to 0.63 inches) wide. When the fruits are ready to be picked, they turn a bright, eye-catching red color.