Bush Lawyer (Tātarāmoa)

Rubus cissoides

Not Threatened

Rubus cissoides, commonly known as Bush Lawyer or Tātarāmoa, is a formidable native climber known for its hooked thorns that catch on clothing and skin. This robust vine plays an important role in forest ecology, providing food and shelter for native birds while its strong, flexible stems were traditionally used by Māori for binding and construction. Its sweet berries are an edible food source for wildlife and humans.

Bush Lawyer (Rubus cissoides) showing its characteristic thorny stems

Image credit: Wikipedia

Quick Facts

Height Up to 15 meters (climbing)
Growth Pattern Scrambling climber
Light Partial shade to full sun
Growth Rate Fast
Flowering White flowers, spring-summer
Fruit Orange-red berries
Habitat Forest margins and clearings