Dull green during the growing season and browsed upon by deer, elk, and moose. Develops attractive fall color, including red, orange, bronze, and yellow. Blooms in spring for a brief period. White flowers are in small clusters. Can be quite showy, especially in ecotypes native in eastern Washington.
Fruit is bluish-black when ripe in late summer.
It is juicy and edible. The versatile fruit may be used fresh or dried, cooked or raw. It is a common food source among Native Americans, and it is a component of mincemeat. It can be used the same ways as blueberries. Popular with wildlife.