RUBUS 



457 



R. DELICIOSUS, James. 

 (Dot. Mag., t. 6062.) 



A deciduous shrub of sturdy habit, reaching 6 to 10 ft. in height, bark 

 peeling ; branches often arching or pendulous, quite unarmed, downy when 

 young. Leaves like those of a black currant in shape and size, being three- 

 or five-lobed, with jagged edges, the base truncate or heart-shaped ; ii to 

 3 ins. long, rather more wide, downy on both sides when young, especially 



RUBUS DELICIOSUS. 



beneath ; stalk I to i^ ins. long. Flowers pure white, 2 ins. across, borne in 

 May on short twigs from the previous year's branches ; sepals downy, ovate, 

 \ in. long. Fruit \ in. across, dry, and of no flavour. 



Native of the Rocky Mountains, where it was discovered in 1820 by 

 Dr James, who gave it the name it bears, although the reason why has been 

 a problem ever since, for its fruit is not delicious. It is, however, the most 

 lovely of all Rubi in regard to its flowers, which are as beautiful as single 

 roses, and as profusely borne. It was introduced in 1870. It is not very 

 easily increased by cuttings (especially the better of two forms in cultivation), 

 but can be layered, although ttie layers will sometimes take a twelvemonth 

 before they become sufficiently rooted to be removable. A good loamy soil, 

 a sunny position, and an occasional pruning out of the old wood complete 

 its requirements. It is one of the elite of hardy shrubs. 



II 2 G 



