Arching canes 1–2m long, each of them have a few broad based thorns and varying degrees of armature. Leaves are pinnately divided, with 3–5 leaflets, each with toothed margins. A key feature is the white tomentum on the lower side of the leaves, a character clearly separating them from blackberries when not in fruit. The tight clusters of greenish white petals become bright red fruit, that fall away from the cluster without the receptacle. They easily shatter.

Throughout

Many cultivars are known favouring stronger more resilient fruit. Some cultivated species are occasionally seen. All are superior cooked or raw and recipes abound.