Rubus parviflorus

Common Names

Thimbleberry, Salmonberry

Summary

Rubus parviflorus, thimbleberry, is a native western and northern North American thornless shrub that forms dense thickets via extensive underground rhizomes. It features large, velvety maple-like leaves with 3–7 lobes and clusters of large white, fragrant flowers, followed by bright red drupes that are edible.

It grows best in full sun to partial shade in moist but well-drained, organically rich soils and is hardy to USDA zone 3, reaching about 0.9–2.5 m tall and wide. The plant spreads vigorously by rhizomes; after fruiting, fruited canes are removed and crowded canes thinned to maintain vigor. Propagation is possible from dormant rhizome segments, seeds, or stem cuttings, and the plant is used in native or wildlife gardens, habitat restoration, and erosion control on banks and slopes, while supporting pollinators and wildlife.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

48-96 inches

Spread

4-8 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-10

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun to Partial Shade, can grow in Full Shade but less lush.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained, organically rich, slightly acidic loamy soil

Soil Drainage

Moist and well-drained soil.

Soil pH

5.0-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

White (rarely pinkish)

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

Orange to maroon

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Moderate to fast growth; about 1–2 feet per year, up to 2+ feet per year in optimal sun.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Stem cuttings, Layering, Division

Attracts Wildlife

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