Notes on the taxonomy of Rubus in southern Africa

Abstract

The taxonomy of Rubus in South Africa is beset with problems. These include the introduction of extra-African species as ornamentals and crops, the apparent segregation of new forms and finally hybridization with indigenous species. These problems are compounded by poor and incomplete collecting of Rubus in South Africa, and by the difficulty of relating introduced taxa to the many and varied species, varieties and ecotypes occurring in other countries.