American Dewberry
Rubus flagellaris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–96" H × 24"–120" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CT and 32 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American dewberry is a native trailing vine that produces small white flowers in spring followed by edible blackberry-like fruits in summer. This groundcover spreads by runners and can form dense patches, going dormant in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Dewberry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Thorny canes create unkempt appearance
- Aggressive spreading habit difficult to contain
- Looks completely bare when dormant in winter
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract native bees and beetles for pollination. Birds and small mammals enjoy the summer berries, while the thorny canes provide nesting habitat.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does American Dewberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.