Sow-teat Blackberry
Rubus allegheniensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Sow-teat blackberry is a native shrub that produces thorny canes and edible blackberries in summer. It forms dense thickets over time and provides white flowers followed by dark purple fruit. The plant spreads by underground runners and can become quite large if not managed.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sow-teat 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 through runners
- Thorny canes appear unruly
- Can look wild and unkempt
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during its long blooming period from May through July. Birds and small mammals feed on the berries, while the dense thickets provide nesting habitat and protective cover.
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 Sow-teat Blackberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.