Capsun-Zmeur Giapponese - Rubus illecebrosus (Ballon berry)

Rubus illecebrosus, also known by the common name strawberry-leaf raspberry, strawberryleaf raspberry or Balloon berry, is a species of raspberry from the Rosaceae family, native to East Asia (Japan, China, and Korea). This deciduous perennial plant is valued for its sweet fruits and the ornamental appearance of its leaves, but it 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.

Appearance of leaves and flowers

• Leaves: The leaves are compound, with 3-5 ovate leaflets, resembling strawberry leaves, with serrated edges, medium green, and 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.

Appearance of the fruits

• Fruits: The fruits are medium-sized, red, spherical in shape, similar to strawberries, sweet and fragrant, ideal for fresh consumption or jams. They ripen in July-August, are 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 upright shrub with thorny stems that spreads quickly 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. May 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: Thorny stems can cause scratches.

Use

Rubus illecebrosus is ideal for wild gardens, borders, or natural areas. Its sweet fruits are excellent for fresh eating 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 leaves resembling strawberries. 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)