Many people believe that all berries that resemble raspberries—especially those growing on raspberry-like plants—are edible. But is this really true? Could there be poisonous berries that look like raspberries? For foragers and fruit lovers, the answer is reassuring: the true raspberry-like structure (clusters of tiny drupelets) is only found in edible Rubus species such as raspberries, blackberries, and salmonberries. All of these are safe to eat. So, it’s extremely rare to find a poisonous berry that closely mimics a real raspberry.
That said, there is one berry that comes close:
Goldenseal
This woodland herb, native to North America, produces red fruits that, at first glance, can look a little like raspberries. The berries form small clusters, giving them that familiar raspberry-like appearance, but unlike true raspberries, they are not safe to eat. Goldenseal berries contain toxic compounds that can cause serious health problems. Reported effects range from nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain to seizures, nervous system issues, and even life-threatening complications if consumed in high amounts. Because of these risks, goldenseal should never be eaten, and its use is considered dangerous, especially for pregnant women and infants.
Others
I’m not very comfortable extending this list beyond goldenseal, because, as I mentioned earlier, there are no true poisonous berries that perfectly resemble raspberries. The only so-called “lookalikes” merely share the red color and clustered appearance. Still, I’ll include them here, since I’ve seen many people on online platforms asking for help identifying some very common fruits—ones that even children usually recognize. I understand the confusion, though. For those who’ve grown up in urban areas, wild berries can all look similar, and this might lead to mistaking these toxic berries for raspberries:
1. Jack-in-the-Pulpit
The fruit of jack-in-the-pulpit grows in bright red clusters that, at first glance, could fool someone into thinking they’ve found a patch of raspberries. The resemblance fades on closer inspection—the berries are smooth, shiny, and tightly packed. Despite their tempting color, they are highly toxic. Eating them can cause a burning sensation in the mouth, swelling, and digestive distress. In larger amounts, they may lead to severe poisoning.
2. Invasive Lantana Camara
Clusters of lantana berries sometimes ripen to a dark purplish-black, and in their early red stages, they can vaguely resemble tiny raspberries. This resemblance can be dangerous, as the plant is poisonous. The berries contain toxins that affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. Children and pets are especially at risk, with symptoms ranging from vomiting and weakness to serious organ damage. While lantana may look ornamental in gardens, its fruit should never be eaten.
3. Red Baneberry (Actaea rubra)
From a distance, red baneberries can be mistaken for raspberries because they form in bright red clusters. Up close, however, they’re smooth and glossy rather than bumpy. This plant is highly toxic; every part contains dangerous compounds, with the berries posing the greatest threat. Eating even a few can cause dizziness, stomach cramps, vomiting, and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing. The attractive clusters mask just how poisonous these berries really are.
4. Hobblebush (Viburnum lantanoides)
Hobblebush produces clusters of red berries that, when unripe, can look somewhat like raspberries. The resemblance is enough to confuse an inexperienced forager. Although not considered deadly, the raw berries can cause stomach upset and discomfort. Birds and wildlife may eat them safely, but humans should be cautious. Only when fully ripe and cooked are they sometimes used in traditional practices, though most people avoid them altogether.
5. Skunk Currant (Ribes glandulosum)
The skunk currant bears clusters of bright red berries that could, at a quick glance, remind someone of small raspberries. Unlike raspberries, the berries are smooth and lack the familiar bumpy texture. They are not considered edible, largely because of their unpleasant, skunky taste. Some sources also suggest mild toxicity, which makes them unfit for eating. Their look can deceive, but their smell and flavor quickly reveal they are best left alone.
Closing Thoughts
There are plenty of other red clustered berries in the wild, and some of them are poisonous. However, most don’t look much like raspberries, so it’s usually easy to tell them apart. That’s why I haven’t extended the list further—it’s best to focus on the few that could really cause confusion. Stay curious, stay safe, and happy foraging!