Salmonberry
Rubus spectabilis
Last reviewed: August 2026
Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) is a perennial shrub native to CA, ID, OR, WA. It blooms in April, May, and June. The flowers draw bees and hummingbirds.
Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Salmonberry as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
36"–120" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, ID, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Before you buy
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Salmonberry is a Northwest native shrub that produces showy pink flowers in spring followed by edible orange-red berries. It forms thickets with arching branches and attractive maple-like leaves, preferring moist, partially shaded conditions.
Growing Salmonberry
Grow Salmonberry in part shade and high water. Mature plants reach 36 to 120 inches tall and spread 36 to 96 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Salmonberry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreads aggressively by underground runners
- Can appear unruly without regular maintenance
- Thorny branches may be considered hazardous
Wildlife value
Salmonberry flowers provide early spring nectar for hummingbirds and bees. The fruits are consumed by birds and small mammals, making this plant valuable wildlife habitat.
Common questions
- How much sun does Salmonberry need?
- Salmonberry grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Salmonberry bloom?
- Salmonberry blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Salmonberry native?
- Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) is native to CA, ID, OR, WA, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- Is Salmonberry toxic to dogs?
- Salmonberry is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Salmonberry toxic to cats?
- Salmonberry is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Salmonberry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Salmonberry as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Salmonberry attract?
- Salmonberry draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Salmonberry HOA-friendly?
- Salmonberry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Salmonberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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