There are two species of Raspberry growing in the Noosa area. They are found in most habitats but don’t grow in sand.
Rubus molucca that is commonly called Molucca Raspberry and Rubus rosifolius, referred to as Native Raspberry.
Both are a prickly shrub that can cause nasty scratches. Not one for around the letterbox. The prickles make a great habitat for small birds as they deter larger birds and predators. Fruit yields can vary greatly from season to season. The fruit can be eaten raw or made into jam. The leaves are used to make tea.
The leaves of rosifolius compound with 5 to 7 leaflets. Flowers are white.
The leaves of moluccanus are pictured here and the flowers are pink/purple. A good place to see this species growing is along the path around Lake Doonella. Enter via Moorhen place and turn right towards the lake. The plants have fruit on them at present. (June 2021)
Landcare nurseries usually sell Native Raspberries or they will grow well from a cutting.
For some more information on our local species and others growing around Queensland have a look at this link; Queensland Raspberries (anpsa.org.au)
By Michelle Newall