Species PlantsThimbleberry

Thimbleberry

Rubus parviflorus

CommonPlant
Illustration of Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus)

Thimbleberry is a native shrub of western mountain forests with large, velvety maple-like leaves and white flowers followed by flat, red berries that look like thimbles. The berries are soft and do not transport well but are delicious fresh. Bears eat enormous quantities in late summer, and many birds and small mammals also consume them.

Habitat
Mountain forest edges, clearcuts, and stream banks in western North America
Diet
Berries heavily consumed by bears, Swainson's thrush, and many birds
How common
Common

Best time to see a Thimbleberry

The best time to see a Thimbleberry is May–July, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 42,848 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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