Pacific Blackberry
Rubus ursinus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Rubus ursinus (Pacific Blackberry) is a native trailing vine found throughout the Pacific Northwest and western states. It produces white flowers from May through July and supports native bees and beetles as pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Pacific Blackberry as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–120" H × 36"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, ID, MT, OR and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pacific blackberry is a sprawling native vine that produces white to pink flowers in late spring and summer, followed by edible dark berries. This vigorous grower can spread extensively through underground runners and forms dense thickets over time. The thorny canes die back in winter but return each spring.
Growing Pacific Blackberry
Grow Pacific Blackberry in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 24 to 120 inches tall and spread 36 to 240 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pacific Blackberry 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.
- Aggressive spreading habit difficult to control
- Thorny canes create maintenance and safety concerns
- Can appear very wild and unkempt
Wildlife value
Host plant for western tiger swallowtail.
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the growing season. Birds and small mammals rely heavily on the nutritious berries in late summer.
Common questions
- Where does Pacific Blackberry naturally grow?
- Rubus ursinus is native to California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington, typically found in forests, clearings, and riparian areas throughout these western states.
- When does Pacific Blackberry bloom?
- Pacific Blackberry flowers from May through July, producing small white blooms that attract native pollinators before developing into edible blackberries later in the season.
- What pollinators visit Pacific Blackberry?
- Native bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Rubus ursinus flowers, making this plant valuable for supporting local pollinator populations.
- What growing conditions does Pacific Blackberry prefer?
- This adaptable vine tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and can grow in various moisture levels, though it performs best with consistent medium water.
- Is Pacific Blackberry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Pacific Blackberry as toxic to livestock.
- Is Pacific Blackberry HOA-friendly?
- Pacific Blackberry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Pacific Blackberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz