Thimbleberry • Rubus parviflorus

In early spring, as temperatures begin to rise, thimbleberry plants produce new shoots and leaves from its base. During this time, the plant will focus on establishing its root system and vegetative growth for the year. As spring progresses, clusters of 5-petal white to pale pink flowers will emerge.

In summer these blossoms will give way to to small, green fruits. Over the next few weeks, the fruits mature and change in color, turning reddish-orange when fully ripe.

As fall approaches, fruit bearing canes die back and should be cut down about 6" from the base, except for the first year where it should be cut down to just half its original size.

Thimbleberry plants are most at home on the coast, as they are used to very specific temperatures, topping out at around 80°F. If planted in an environment that will reach higher temperatures, find a place where it is shaded during the hottest parts of the day, between 2pm and 7pm. 

They prefer a location with acidic to neutral soil, with a pH value between 5.5 and 7.0. The soil should be well-drained, and they should receive plenty of water, especially during the dry summer months in the Pacific Northwest.

Growing Thimbleberry on trellises or vines will provide easier harvest conditions, as it tends to crawl along the ground at the same time as reaching towards the sky. They will need to be pruned throughout the year so as not to overtake a specific area, however be mindful to selectively prune only vegetative branches, leaving enough of the plant in tact to provide leaves for seasonal growth. Wait to prune it back until late fall.