Rubus sanctus (Holy Bramble)

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Rubus sanctus

Botanical names: Rubus sanctus, Rubus ulmifolius subsp. sanctus

Common names: Holy Bramble, Burning Bush of the Bible

Origin: Eastern Mediterranean, Sinai

Hardiness: 10°F

Plant attracts butterflies, hummingbirds

Ethnomedical plant.
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Subtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

Rubus sanctus (Holy Bramble) is a perennial shrub native to the Mediterranean and parts of Western Asia. It belongs to the rose family and forms arching, thorny canes that can reach 6 10 feet in length, often rooting where they touch the ground. The compound leaves are bright green with toothed edges, and clusters of pink to purple flowers appear in summer, followed by small black berries. The fruits are edible though less fleshy than those of cultivated blackberries, and the plant is valued for its resilience in rocky and dry soils.

Rubus sanctus grows well in full sun with moderately fertile, well-drained soil and adapts to poor ground where other fruiting shrubs struggle. It tolerates heat and drought once established, though regular watering improves fruiting. Hardy to USDA Zone 7, it can withstand winter frost and is often used as a vigorous groundcover, hedge, or natural barrier on slopes and rough land. While berries are enjoyed fresh or cooked, gardeners primarily appreciate its toughness, wildlife value, and ability to cover difficult spaces with little care.

Rubus sanctus is traditionally identified with the Burning Bush of Moses on Mount Sinai, and a centuries-old specimen still grows at the Chapel of the Burning Bush in Saint Catherine s Monastery, where it is revered as a living symbol of divine revelation.