leafy-flowered blackberry
At Salter Grove, two patches of leafy-flowered blackberry thrive on the lawn southwest of the parking lot. There is a third patch along Narragansett Parkway just north of the entrance into the park. There are also scattered individuals in the upland woods, probably brought in by birds. However, because of limited light in the understory these isolated individuals tend to be rather small and spindly in form, and have not been observed to flower.
Abundant flowers open from early to mid-June and are visited by a constant stream of insects seeking nectar and pollen. A large fruit crop follows in late July and attracts wildlife and human foragers.
The leafy-flowered blackberry is a member of the rose family and is native to eastern and central North America. It typically has erect or long arching canes that are armed with stout spines. Once established, plants growing in favorable conditions often form impenetrable thickets. The term bramble is often used to describe this growth habit and is applied to other shrubby members of the rose family as well. When unmanaged, this species readily colonizes sunny waste areas with poor soils to the exclusion of other plants.
Europeans have long used blackberries as food and medicine. Remains of an Iron Age woman dated from 2,500 years ago included blackberry fruits in the stomach contents. A document dated 1771 suggested brewing leaves, stems and bark for treating stomach ulcers. Leaves were used to alleviate bleeding gums and canker sores. Decoctions of the astringent root were thought helpful in treating dysentery, diarrhea, and even whooping cough. Additionally, the fruits, leaves and stems have been used to dye fabrics and hair. A popular home remedy for intestinal upset was made by combining brandy with a blackberry syrup. Early European settlers must have been relieved when they encountered the very similar blackberries that are indigenous to North America.
Native Americans also made great use of blackberries. A decoction was made from the roots to stop menstrual bleeding and to relieve lung ailments. The berries were eaten fresh, made into jam, or sun dried for later consumption.