The Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus) is a beautiful, fruiting deciduous shrub native to North America, admired for its large white flowers and sweet, soft red berries. The fruits resemble raspberries in shape but have a unique, mild flavor that’s perfect for fresh eating, jams, and desserts.
These non-GMO thimbleberry seeds grow into bushy, thornless shrubs that thrive in partial shade and cool, moist soils. Perfect for forest gardens, wildlife landscaping, or edible hedges, this plant offers ornamental beauty and a sustainable source of native fruit.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Rubus parviflorus |
| Common Names | Thimbleberry, Western Thimbleberry, Salmonberry Bush |
| Plant Type | Deciduous Fruiting Shrub |
| Flower Color | White |
| Fruit Color | Red |
| Season | Spring bloom; summer fruiting |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 3–9 |
| Growth Habit | Upright, clumping shrub |
| Mature Height | 3–8 ft |
| Sunlight | Partial shade to full sun |
| Soil Type | Moist, well-drained loam; pH 5.5–7.0 |
| Water Needs | Moderate; prefers consistent moisture |
| Heirloom | Yes |
| GMO Status | Non-GMO |
| Organic Option | Available (check variant) |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to early summer |
| Pollination | Self-fertile; bee-pollinated |
Planting Guide
- Seed Stratification: Cold stratify for 60–90 days in moist peat or sand at 35–40°F.
- Sowing Depth: ¼ inch deep in moist, rich soil.
- Germination Time: 4–8 weeks after stratification.
- Light Requirements: Partial shade to filtered sunlight preferred.
- Spacing: 3–5 feet apart for natural spreading growth.
- Watering: Keep evenly moist; do not allow soil to dry out completely.
- Maintenance: Prune back old canes after fruiting to encourage new growth.
Growing Tips
- Great for woodland gardens, pollinator landscapes, and edible borders.
- Prefers cooler, moist climates similar to raspberries.
- Fruits are ideal for fresh eating, preserves, and natural desserts.
- No thorns make it easy to harvest and handle.
- Provides habitat and food for birds, bees, and butterflies.
