thumb|Flower
thumb|Rubus phylogenetic tree
Rubus occidentalis is a species of Rubus native to eastern North America. Its common name black raspberry is shared with other closely related species. Other names occasionally used include bear's eye blackberry, black cap, black cap raspberry, and scotch cap.
Description
Rubus occidentalis is a deciduous shrub growing to tall. Long stems also called canes grow up to in length, usually forming an arch shape, but sometimes upright. Canes have curved, sharp thorns, while immature canes are unbranched and have a whitish bloom.
Similar species
The black raspberry is related to the red raspberries Rubus idaeus and Rubus strigosus, sharing the white underside of leaves, and fruit that readily detaches from the carpel.
Distribution and habitat
thumb|Fruits at different stages of maturity
The plant is native to eastern North America, with a range as far east as New Brunswick, as far west as Nebraska, as far north as Quebec, and as far south as Mississippi. It grows in disturbed areas, especially those that are logged or cut. It is also found in meadows, and near streams and lakes, trails or roadways.
Cultivation
A center for black raspberry cultivation is in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. The plants are summer tipped by hand, mechanically pruned in winter and then machine harvested.