Abstract:The genus Rubus have significant economic value, with southwest China considered as a key distribution center for these species. However, the status of wild Rubus resources in this region remains largely unexplored. In this study, the Rubus resources in southwest China were investigated by field studies, specimen examination and literature review. Additionally, the study preliminarily addressed the collection, preservation and medicinal potential of Rubus resources in southwest China. The results showed that there were 142 Rubus species and 69 varieties in southwest China, representing 68.27% of the total Rubus species found in China, among which 47 species were endemic and 40 varieties. The region boasts 8 herbaceous species and 2 varieties, as well as 134 shrub species and 67 varieties. The fruits predominantly exhibit colors as yellow, red, or black. They are composed of small drupes that accumulate on the flower bed, creating a clustered fruit structure. These fruits are typically either pulpy or dry, and are mostly nearly spherical or spherical in shape, with a diameter of approximately 1 cm.There were 22 species and one variety with medicinal value, while five species are suitable for use as breeding materials or for introduction and domestication in the high altitude area of northwest Yunnan. These Rubus resources are found across a wide range of altitudes, from 100 to 4300 m.This study systematically presented the distribution, life type, habitat type, botanical characteristics and genetic diversity of Rubus species in southwest China, which provided foundational data for the future development and genetic breeding of Rubus resources.