Rubus spectabilis

Common Names

Salmonberry, Salmon Raspberry

Summary

Salmonberry is a deciduous, rhizomatous shrub native to western North America, from Alaska to northwestern California, often forming dense thickets. It grows 1–4 m tall with erect to arching stems that may be unarmed or bristly, and leaves are trifoliate with three leaflets. In spring, showy pink to magenta flowers appear, followed by raspberry-like fruits ranging from yellow to orange to red.

Moist to wet sites such as streambanks and wetlands suit salmonberry, with tolerance for sun to partial shade; it commonly spreads by rhizomes and forms dense stands. Propagation is by layering, sprouts, rhizomes, root cuttings, or cuttings, while seed propagation is possible with stratification. Edible fruits are used by humans; nectar attracts pollinators, and fruits feed birds and mammals, supporting wildlife. In restoration and erosion-control projects, salmonberry is valued, and it is hardy to USDA zones 4–9.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

3.5-13 feet

Spread

3-5 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 4-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun to Partial Shade.

Soil Type

Moist, humus-rich, well-aerated soil; range includes chalk, clay, loam, and sand

Soil Drainage

Moist but well-drained

Soil pH

All soil pH levels (acidic, alkaline, or neutral)

Bloom Color

Deep pink

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Very rapid growth, especially in moist, shady conditions, with rapid spread via suckers from the base to form dense thickets.

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Layering, Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, other pollinators, and birds