Blackberry

(Rubus Fruticosus) A declared weed of national significance, Blackberry is common throughout Australia, particularly along roadsides, on vacant cleared land and as an invader in the bush. Occurring naturally throughout Europe, it was introduced by early settlers and used as a hedge to control stock. It forms dense clumps and its packed, thorny stems make it difficult to control. Blackberries flower over summer and produce edible berries from late summer to autumn. Both the oval shaped leaves and long arching stems are prickly, with the latter growing up to 3 metres. Seeds can be spread in bird dropping, resulting in blackberries often springing up beneath shrubs and trees.