A simple-leaved species which forms a scrambling shrub to 3 metres high. It is a native species, but its natural range extends far beyond Australia into south-east Asia. Moluccanus var. moluccanus has a shallowly lobed leaf, white petals and erect brown to yellow hairs on the leaf stalks and branchlets. This variety is common in north Queensland, but does occur sporadically in the south, at low altitudes. It includes Moluccanus var. dendrocharis, a name which has appeared in some books in recent years. Moluccanus var. trilobus has a distinctly three-lobed leaf, mostly pink petals and appressed greyish hairs on the leaf stalks and branchlets. This variety is common in New South Wales and extends into eastern Victoria. In Queensland, it is mainly in the south, but does extend to the Atherton Tableland. It was formerly (incorrectly) known as Rubus hillii. The fruits of both varieties are red, succulent and tasty. Source: Queensland Raspberries by Tony Bean.
Photo: Robert Whyte
