Smooth Blackberry
Rubus canadensis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–96" H × 24"–120" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, CT, GA, IL and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Smooth blackberry is a native trailing vine that produces white flowers in late spring and summer, followed by edible dark berries. This low-growing groundcover can spread widely and works well for naturalizing slopes or woodland edges.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth 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.
- Spreads aggressively and can look uncontrolled
- May be perceived as weedy or wild
- Thorny canes create maintenance challenges
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the long blooming season from May through July. Birds and small mammals enjoy the nutritious berries in late summer.
Common questions
- How much sun does Smooth Blackberry need?
- Smooth Blackberry grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Smooth Blackberry bloom?
- Smooth Blackberry blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Smooth Blackberry native?
- Smooth Blackberry (Rubus canadensis) is native to AL, CT, GA, IL and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Smooth Blackberry attract?
- Smooth Blackberry draws bees and beetles.
- Is Smooth Blackberry HOA-friendly?
- Smooth 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 Smooth 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