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The "Kaji-ichigo" (Rubus trifidus) belongs to Rosaceae (the Rose family). It is a small semi-evergreen tree that is native to westward from Kanto district to the Pacific Ocean Side of Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu in Japan. This tree grows in coastal mountains and can reach 2-3 m in height. It is also cultivated widely. The stem is spineless and much branched. The leaves are broad ovate, alternate and divided into 3-7 lobes palmately. The white flowers come on the terminal twigs from April to May. The fruits are ripen pale yellow to yellow-orange and have sweet and sour flavor, edible. The Japanese name comes from its leaves, which resemble "kajino-ki" (Paper mulberry).
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