1. Blackberries
By: Victoria Nguyen

2. Names the Plant Goes By Scientific name: Rubus fruticosus
Common name: Blackberry

3. Locations of the Blackberry
No matter where the berries are located in the world, they are only found in temperate rain forest biome.

4. Role in the Ecosystem
Blackberries are sources of useful food sources to animals and humans.
Their roots are eaten by mainly nematodes (tiny insects)
Their branches are eaten by red necked cane borer beetles and the raspberry crown borer beetles
Their leaves are eaten by larval borers and grasshoppers
Their flowers are eaten by Western winter moth larvae and Lygus bugs
Their fruit are eaten by picnic beetles, Japanese beetles, June bugs, stinkbugs, and humans

5. Claims It Treats
Parts of the blackberry are used to treat dysentery, diarrhea, and other intestinal issues
Blackberries can also be used as a gargle to treat sore throats, inflamed gums, and mouth ulcers
Often used as an antioxidant to boost immune systems to confront diseases

6. Parts of the Blackberry Used for Treatments
The blackberry roots are used to treat the previously mentioned intestinal disorders
The blackberry’s roots, leaves, and ripe berries are used to treat the mouth/throat problems
The actual blackberry fruit is eaten so that consumers get a sufficient amount of antioxidants

7. Essential Chemicals Anthocyanin
a bioflavonoid that is found in teas, wines, nuts, etc. and controls radical chemicals in the body. With this, it enhances liver function and improves vision
Phenolic compounds such as flavonols and ellagitannins are also present
These compounds influence age-related neurodegenerative diseases and bone loss by inhibiting low-density lipoportein and liposomal oxidation
Blackberry extracts influence antimutagenic effects “by modifying cell signaling pathways and suppressing tumor production factors” (Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry)

8. The Parts Used

9. How it’s Reproduced
Blackberries naturally reproduce by asexual reproduction. The roots create sprouts and then reproduce from the root fragments
Because humans consume blackberries, agricultural farms out there grow the berries by planting seeds and using farming methods
Birds, other mammals, and water transport blackberry seeds from Point A to Point B where they then grow and develop

10. How It’s Prepared
To harvest blackberry fruit, the optimal time would be from July-August. Simply hand-pick them from the bushes when they’re black and ripe
To harvest blackberry leaves, harvest the leaves before the plants flower and store them in a cool area that will ensure drying
To harvest blackberry roots, do so before the flowers of the plant appear. Separate the roots from the plant, skin off the bark, cut the remainder into thin strips, and dry them