Capsun-Zmeur Japonez - Rubus illecebrosus (Ballon berry)

Rubus illecebrosus, also known as the popular name strawberryleaf raspberry, strawberryleaf raspberry or Ballon berry, is a species of raspberry from the Rosaceae family, native to East Asia (Japan, China, and Korea). This perennial, deciduous plant is valued for its sweet fruits and ornamental leaf appearance but can become invasive in some regions. It is ideal for fruit gardens, wild borders, or natural areas, where it produces edible fruits and attracts pollinators.

Some sources mention this variety as a hybrid between strawberry and raspberry, but modern botanical studies consider it a distinct species.

Leaf and flower appearance

• Leaves: The leaves are compound, with 3-5 ovate leaflets, similar to strawberry leaves, with serrated edges, medium green, with a slightly rough texture. The foliage is deciduous, falling in winter, and provides a dense background for the fruits.
• Flowers: The flowers are small, white, with 5 petals, grouped in clusters, appearing in May-June. They are discreet but attract pollinators, especially bees.

Fruit appearance

• Fruits: The fruits are medium-sized, red, with a spherical shape, similar to strawberries, sweet and aromatic, ideal for fresh consumption or jams. They ripen in July-August, being edible and attractive to birds.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width: Reaches 1-1.5 meters in height and 1-2 meters in width, forming an erect shrub with spiny stems, which spreads rapidly through suckers.
• Vigor: Rapid, vigorous growth, with flexible stems and a tendency to spread, making it potentially invasive.
• Type: Deciduous perennial shrub, with annual fruit production.

Growing conditions

• Exposure: Prefers full sun or partial shade for optimal fruiting. Tolerates shade but produces fewer fruits.
• Soil: Grows in fertile, well-drained soils, with slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). Tolerates poor or clay soils.
• Watering: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soaked, especially during dry periods.
• Temperature: Hardy in zones 4-8 (down to -30°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania.

Care and resistance

• Resistance: Resistant to cold, moderate drought, and pollution. Can be affected by aphids or mites; treat with organic methods. Tolerates drought and wind but can become invasive, requiring control.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and a potassium-rich fertilizer in summer for fruiting. Avoid excess nitrogen.
• Pruning: Cut stems that have fruited in autumn down to the ground and remove weak branches in spring. Keep 5-7 healthy stems per bush.
• Propagation: Propagated by suckers, root cuttings, or seeds in spring.
• Warning: Spiny stems can cause scratches.

Usage

Rubus illecebrosus is ideal for wild gardens, borders, or natural areas. Its sweet fruits are excellent for fresh consumption or jams. It pairs well with other low plants and attracts pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Rubus illecebrosus is native to East Asia (Japan, China, Korea). It was introduced into Western horticulture for its fruits and ornamental appearance.

Rubus illecebrosus is an exotic raspberry, with sweet red fruits and strawberry-like leaves. Easy to grow, with sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering, it is hardy and vigorous. Productive and decorative, this variety adds culinary and aesthetic value to gardens.

Pot diameter: 9 cm
Height including pot: approx. 30-40 cm (varies depending on season)