THE RASPBERRY AND BLACKBERRY. 
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CHAPTER XXV. 
THE RASPBERRY AND BLACKBERRY. 
1. The Raspberry. 
Rubus Idoeus, 4: Rosacece, of botanists. 
Framboisicr, of the French ; Himbeerstrauch , German ; Framboos, 
Dutch ; Rova ideo, Italian ; and Frambueso , Spanish. 
The Raspberry is a low deciduous shrub, which in several 
forms is common in the woods of both Europe and America. 
The large fruited varieties most esteemed in our gardens have 
all originated from the long cultivated Rubus idceus , or Mount 
Ida bramble, which appears first to have been introduced into 
the gardens of the South of Europe from Mount Ida. It is now 
quite naturalized in some parts of this country. Besides this, 
we have in the woods the common black raspberry, or thimble- 
berry ( Rubus occidentalism L.), and the red raspberry ( Rubus 
strigosus , Michx.), with very good fruit. 
The name raspberry ( Raspo , Italian) is probably from the 
rasping roughness of prickly wood. The term raspis is still 
used in Scotland. 
Uses. — The raspberry is held in general estimation, not only 
as one of the most refreshing and agreeable sub-acid fruits for 
the dessert, but it is employed by almost every family in making 
preserves, jams, ices, sauces, tarts and jellies ; and on a larger 
scale by confectioners for making syrups, by distillers for 
making raspberry brandy, raspberry vinegar, &c. Raspberry 
wine, made in the same way as that of currant, is considered 
the most fragrant and delicious of all home-made wines. 
Succeeding the strawberry at the beginning of summer, when 
there is comparatively little else, this is one of the most in- 
valuable fruits, and, with the strawberry, generally commands 
the attention of those who have scarcely room for fruit trees. It 
<s, next to the strawberry, one of the most wholesome berries, 
and not being liable to undergo the acetous fermentation in the 
stomach, it is considered beneficial in cases of gout or rheu- 
matism. 
Propagation. — The raspberry is universally propagated by 
suckers, or offsets, springing up from the main roots. Seeds 
are only planted when new varieties are desired. The seedlings 
come into bearing at two or three years of age. 
Soil and Culture. — The best soil is a rich deep loam, rather 
moist than dry, but the raspberry will thrive well in any soil that 
