Boysenberry Thornless (Rubus idaeus x Rubus ursinus)

Boysenberry is a complex cross between blackberry, raspberry and loganberry, bred in America in the 1930s, the Thornless Boysenberry looks like a larger, darker raspberry but tastes more like a wild blackberry and has almost seedless fruit and thornless canes. The purple berries, borne on 2nd year wood, are large and juicy with a tangy flavour. Moderately vigorous, and a heavy cropper, trouble-free and easy to grow. Fruits on 2nd year wood, like a summer raspberry. A good choice of hybrid berry for sandy soils, as it is notably drought-resistant, and a good choice for very cold areas.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Well-drained soils; dry, sandy soils
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Pick: July–August
Keep: A few days in the fridge; freeze well
Hardiness: Very hardy
Pollination: Self-fertile
Uses: Cooking, eating, preserving
Height: 5’–8’ (1.5-2.5m) Spread: 5’–8’ (1.5-2.5m)