Native in the Pacific Northwest west of the Cascade Range from British Columbia to California. Creeping vine found in the forest understory, often at the base of trees and in logged areas. Their thin stems are a definite ankle grabber and will send a person sprawling. Much prized for their tiny sweet berries (although in my opinion they are more trouble then they are worth to harvest). The leaves and roots may be used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, excessive menstruation, fevers, hemorrhoids, and mouth sores. Per Coast Salish folklore, a woman was chased up a tree by her jealous husband, The blood of the woman fell from the tree and became blackberries. The Salish used this plant as a purification rite, scrubbing the stems across their bodies prior to spirit dances.

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