What is more pleasurable than handfuls of Salmonberries in the summer in Washington State. A happy Salmonberry spreads quickly. A Pacific Northwest native, deciduous shrub (up to 10 ft) known for early spring magenta flowers and edible, yellow-to-orange-red berries that taste mildly sweet to tart, that quickly enhances the the surrounding ecosystem by providing food to local wildlife.
Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) is a member of the rose family (Rosaceae) and is quite similar to a raspberry. Bears fruit mid-June and late July.
ZONE: 4-9
POLLINATOR: Yes (provides crucial early nectar)
DEER RESISTANT: Yes
DROUGHT TOLERANT: No
EVERGREEN: No, it is deciduous
SPREADS BY SEED: No, this plant spreads by its rhizomes
NEEDS A CROSS POLLINATOR: Considered self-fertile, but cross-pollination by bees and hummingbirds significantly increases fruit set and berry size
AGE OF PLANT: 1yr (roots will have full maturity by April)
MATURE HEIGHT: 4-10FT tall & 4-10Ft wide (easy to keep in a compact area)
SALMONBERRY 3.5" Potted Plant
PLANTING & GROWING
Best planted in moist to wet, nitrogen-rich soil with full to partial shade. Plant in early spring or fall, keeping soil consistently moist.
Salmonberries love rich, nutrient-dense soil. Apply a thick layer of compost, typically six to eight inches, to the area where you want to grow salmonberries.
Tip: Do not plant the salmonberry too deep so it does not sink into the possibly too moist soil at the base of the canes.
MEDICINAL BENEFITS
- Antioxidants
- Vit A
- Vit C
- Vit K
- Vit E
- Astringent leaves, bark, and roots are used for treating burns, wounds, and skin infections.
- Teas made from the dried leaves plant aid in digestive issues like diarrhea, labor pain reduction, & inflammation.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
FLAVOR & PAIRING
Salmonberries, known for their delicate, slightly tart flavor, pair exceptionally well with rich, savory items like salmon, halibut, game birds (quail), and cream cheese. They are excellent in desserts, including pies, tarts, and scones, and complement other berries like raspberries. For flavor pairing, they enhance champagne, cocktails and salads with notes of citrus, maple syrup, and herbs like basil, mint, and watercress.