Salmonberry 'Rubus spectabilis' is a member of the rose family (Rosaceae) and is similar to a raspberry in size and shape; except its fruit color is yellow, orange, or bright red. It belongs to the genus 'Rubus', and in North America 'Rubus' is simplified to only 37 species.

Salmonberry is endemic to the Pacific Northwest extending north into Alaska and Canada, Washington, Idaho, Oregon and parts of California, and interestingly, in Japan.

It is a stout shrub ranging in height between 3 to 13 feet (1 to 4 meters), with perennial, woody stems that are covered with fine prickles. The flowering heads are representative of the rose family with 20 to 100 stamens centered in a circle of five pink to magenta petals and the leaves are trifoliate. Although the fruit is often referred to as a berry, it is technically a fleshy aggregated drupelet.

It grows wild, usually between mid-June and late July. Mature fruits are tender and sweet, and often used in jams, jellies, and baked goods and often served with smoked salmon. Salmonberry has been a part of the Alaskan indigenous peoples’ diet for thousands of years; a traditional dish called 'akutaq' is served on special occasions (a mixture of animal oils, salmonberry, other berries and fish). Young shoots can be eaten both raw or cooked like asparagus. Salmonberry has also been used to flavor beer and wine.

Salmonberry has several special medicinal properties; it can be consumed as a tea, an astringent and for dressing wounds.

More Info: en.m.wikipedia.org