How Do You Identify Red Berries On A Vine?
There are many red berries; some are more popular and therefore more recognizable than others. They grow on shrubs, rootstocks, runners or perennial plants. Strawberries, raspberries, bunchberries (ground dogwood), nagoonberry, highbush cranberry and red currants are some common red berries, though there are many more. Because there are so many kinds of red berries, it is helpful to use a regional guidebook when identifying them. Look for red berries in the spring to late summer and fall. Take note of the color of the berry. Its red, yes, but what tone of red is it? Is it a really dark red or a bright exuberant red? Observe what texture and shape the berries have. Are they “aggregate” shaped (composed of multiple little round sections) like a raspberry? Are they “accessory” shaped (heart-shape) like a strawberry? Are they spherical like a cranberry? Look for any flowers accompanying the berries on the vine. Are they white, yellow or pink? Are they shaped like a bell, tube, cup, funnel
