Where it grows: Ootsistsíín  grow under aspen and poplar trees, along roadside ditches, in forested ravines, and in moist, scrubby areas.

How to Identify: The small crimson berries begin to ripen at the end of June and beginning of July.

Blackfoot: Ootsistsiin

The Hand Hills in Alberta was known by the Blackfoot as Oht-tchis-tchis and Strawberry Hills

Food Uses:

• Fresh, uncooked fruits were a delicacy.
• The leaves were used to make tea.

Medicinal Uses:

• If a weak tea is made from the leaves, it can be used to sooth sore eyes. If a strong tea is made it from the leaves it can be used as a daily tonic because it is high in vitamin C. Tea made from the roots can relieve diarrhea.