Unlike tall blackberry canes, this species stays very short (4–12 inches) and spreads by creeping stems, making it a groundcover in northern forests.
Produces small, bright red berries that are tart but edible, often eaten fresh by foragers and wildlife.
Berries are eaten by birds, small mammals, and bears, while dense patches provide cover for ground-nesting species.
Indigenous people used the berries as food and the roots for medicinal teas to treat digestive and respiratory ailments.
Unlike tall blackberry canes, this species stays very short (4–12 inches) and spreads by creeping stems, making it a groundcover in northern forests.
Produces small, bright red berries that are tart but edible, often eaten fresh by foragers and wildlife.
Berries are eaten by birds, small mammals, and bears, while dense patches provide cover for ground-nesting species.
Indigenous people used the berries as food and the roots for medicinal teas to treat digestive and respiratory ailments.
Bloom: mid-spring to early summer
Habitats: forest or shrub swamps; open moist meadows; stream banks; upland forests
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist
Plant type (height): forb (4 to 6 inches)
Requirements: partial sun to moderate shade
Soil: abundant organic matter
