A plant record

Blackberry

Rubus fruticosus · Rosaceae

EnglishBlackberry

FrançaisRonce commune

BotanicalRubus fruticosus

FamilyRosaceae

Blackberry — Rubus fruticosus, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Bramble leaf is a mild astringent, owed to its tannins. An infusion calms an irritated gut — diarrhoea, colitis, the inflamed stomach — and a stronger decoction serves as a gargle for a raw throat or sore gums. Dried and fermented, the leaves make a homely substitute for black tea, often blended with faded raspberry leaf.

In three languages

Français — La feuille de ronce est un astringent doux, dû à ses tanins. Une infusion calme un intestin irrité — diarrhée, colite, estomac enflammé — et une décoction plus forte sert de gargarisme pour une gorge ou des gencives douloureuses. Séchées et fermentées, les feuilles remplacent le thé noir, souvent mêlées à la feuille de framboisier fanée.

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Sources & lineage

Traditional European herbal use; leaf tannins and organic acids

Kept alongside

HawthornRose hipBlackberry / BrambleTormentilBlackthorn / SloeGreat burnet

More on Haitian plant medicine