Running Blackberry
Rubus hispidus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 20 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Running blackberry is a low-growing native groundcover that spreads by trailing stems to form colonies. It produces small white flowers in late spring followed by edible blackberries in summer, with leaves turning attractive colors in fall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Running 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 can overtake other plants
- Thorny stems may be considered undesirable
- Can appear unkempt without regular maintenance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles in May and June. Birds and small mammals eat the berries, while the dense growth provides cover for ground-nesting wildlife.
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 Running Blackberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.