There are dozens of blackberry species that are native to North America, from the Arctic Circle southward. Some are fairly aggressive. Virtually all are useful, as their fruits are tasty, and in addition to their usefulness as a human food source(Yum! Love that blackberry cobbler!), wildlife species rely on them extensively as a food source, as well as a source of cover.

Here is a link that might be useful: Rubus spp. - in the thicket of it

The very invasive berry that we have around us in PA is variously called many things (I was told it was called thimbleberry or wineberry), but the Latin name is Rubus phoenacolasius. It's absolutely delicious to humans and birds, but it is displacing natives through its vigorous growth habits. Here's a link for you to see if this is your plant.

Here is a link that might be useful: Wineberry

Thank you so so much!!

I really don't think they are the invasive kind, thank goodness!!

They just are not that 'perfect looking' I don't think, and the thorns are not 'fuzzy' like the Wineberry. I will have to wait until spring to be sure.

If I do have some wineberry mixed in, I will be sure to kill it.

You guys really are great, thank you so much for your help in keeping things native.

Hey Jennifer I haven't seen you around lately, hope all is well with you.
Lisa

I think there pretty useful if you can afford them. I know alot of people use them for business to check emails and such.Also for things like keeping appointments and keeping in touch with the home office. Id say go for it get a blackberry.

lol
jeff