Shortstalk dewberry facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Shortstalk dewberry |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Rubus
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| Species: |
curtipes
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Rubus curtipes, also known as the shortstalk dewberry, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the rose family. This plant is not very common. You can find it in different parts of the northeastern and north-central United States. It grows from Massachusetts in the east to Minnesota in the west, and south to Tennessee.
About the Shortstalk Dewberry
The shortstalk dewberry is a plant that lives for many years. It has stems called canes that are prickly. These canes grow for two years.
How It Grows
In its first year, the plant grows long, arching canes. These canes can sometimes touch the ground and grow roots from their tips. The leaves on these first-year canes look like a hand with fingers spread out. They usually have 3 or 5 smaller leaf parts, called leaflets.
In the second year, the canes grow lower to the ground. They might even trail along the ground. The leaves on these older canes are a mix. Some are simple, meaning they are just one leaf. Others are still compound, but they usually have 3 leaflets.
What Its Flowers Look Like
The flowers of the shortstalk dewberry grow in groups. These groups are flat on top, like a small table.
Why It's Special
Plants in the Rubus group, which includes dewberries and blackberries, can be tricky to study. Their genetics are very complex. This makes it hard for scientists to decide which groups are separate species. The shortstalk dewberry is one of these rare species. It only grows in certain areas. Scientists are still studying these plants to learn more about them.
