Species information
Scientific name: Rubus grayanus
Japanese name: リュウキュウキイチゴ
Chinese name: 中南懸鉤子
English name: Ryukyu Raspberry
Origin: China, and in Japan from Tanegashima and Yakushima southwards
Ecology and description
Ryukyu Raspberry is the most common and abundant raspberry species in the Yambaru area. In winter, large white flowers can be seen along forest roads. Since the flowers bloom downwards, they are sometimes hidden by leaves and can be hard to notice. In March and April, orange-yellow raspberry fruits can be seen. They are deliciously sweet and sour and are a favorite treat for small birds in the forest.
It is noted by Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science with a question mark after China in its distribution range, possibly because it is uncertain whether the species in China is the same. Although literature mentions its presence on Ishigaki and Iriomote, there are no specimen records.
Reference: National Museum of Nature and Science reference page
Field photographs taken during our tours, with observation dates
During our 【Forest Walk】 tour in the winter season, you have the chance to see the flowers, and in the spring season, the fruits.
