Rubus parvifolius

Common Names

Thimbleberry, Native Raspberry, Japanese Raspberry, Small-Leaf Bramble, Western Thimbleberry

Summary

Native raspberry, a scrambling or upright, dense thicket-forming shrub with an extensive underground rhizome, typically 0.5–2 m tall and wide. It bears prickly stems, pinnate leaves with 3–5 leaflets (1–4 cm long) that have wrinkled upper surfaces and white-tomentose undersides, and large white flowers in clusters; red edible berries form after flowering.

Grows in sun to part shade in moist to well-drained soils; hardy zones 3–11; tolerates frost; spreads vigorously by rhizomes and can form dense thickets in disturbed areas; used as habitat plant and ornamental, including informal hedge; propagates by seed, rhizomes, tip layering, or division; prune after harvest to encourage new canes; fruits edible, used fresh or for jams; attracts birds; deer resistant.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

3-3.5 feet

Spread

39 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 3-11

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full Sun to Partial Shade, tolerates sun or shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained loamy soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soils

Soil pH

6-7, Slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Green upper surface; white lower surface.

Fall Foliage Color

Gold, Brown

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Average to medium growth, fast in optimal conditions, seedlings grow faster than rooted cuttings, vigorous.

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering, Division, Rhizomes

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, other pollinators, and birds