Rubus nessensis
# Rubus nessensis

Rubus nessensis is a species of bramble native to Northwestern Europe, including Great Britain and Ireland. Two subspecies are recognized: R. n. nessensis and R. n. cubirianus.

## Description

Rubus nessensis is an erect, arching shrub growing to a height of 2 (rarely 3) metres. In its more usual shaded habitat, its stem is green; plants exposed to more light have brownish stems. Purple, conical prickles are numerous on the stem. Leaves bear 5 to 7 leaflets, the terminal leaflet being around 10 cm long, among the largest in the genus. The fruit is dark red, thus distinguishing Rubus nessensis from other members of Rubus subgenus Rubus , except Rubus scissus, which lacks the conical prickles.

## Habitat and distribution

Rubus nessensis is found in riverside woodland, where it can dominate the ground flora. It occurs widely across Northwestern Europe. In Great Britain it has a broad distribution, with strongholds along the south coast, in South Wales, and in Argyll. Most Irish records are from the eastern half of the country.

