Thimbleberry

Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus) also known as redcaps, is a plant with edible red fruit similar to a raspberry, but smaller. Because the fruit does not hold together well, it is not sold commercially. The berry is also eaten by birds and bears. Black-tailed deer eat the young leaves and stems. The plant has large hairy leaves and no thorns, and grows a small white flower. A species of Rubus, it is native to northern temperate regions of North America. Typically found growing along roadsides, railroad tracks, and in forest clearings, it shows up after clear cut and in forest fire areas. Many parts of the plant were used as medicine by Native Americans.