Slipping easily off into your hand when ripe, this ruby-red berry is aptly named for its pronounced cup shape. This is the best-tasting and least-appreciated berry. Thimbleberries are a little sour, but not too much, which gives them a bit of pizzazz.”
The plant sports large white flowers and maple-like fuzzy leaves that Jacobson calls “camper’s toilet paper.” Thimbleberry leaves can also be used as makeshift containers, but because the berries do not travel well, they are also best enjoyed at the source.
They ripen from late May to early August, with peak picking in July.