Boysenberry

Boysenberries

Boysenberries are a hybrid bramble fruit created by crossing raspberries, blackberries, and loganberries. They have a deep purple color and a sweet-tart flavor.

Starting Plants

Boysenberries are typically propagated from rooted cuttings or purchased as bare-root plants. Plant in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.8 and 6.5. Provide support for the canes, such as a trellis or fence.

Planting Time

Plant bare-root boysenberries in early spring, 2-4 weeks before the last frost date. Space plants 3-4 feet apart in rows 6-8 feet apart.

Harvesting

Boysenberries typically produce fruit on two-year-old canes. Berries are ready to harvest when they have turned deep purple and are slightly soft. Gently pull the berries from the canes and collect them in a container. Boysenberry plants can produce fruit for 10-15 years with proper care.

Seed Harvesting

Boysenberries are not typically grown from seed, as they are hybrid plants that do not produce true-to-type offspring.

Commonly Grown Varieties

There are few boysenberry varieties, as they are a specific hybrid. Some related bramble fruits include:

Loganberries: A cross between raspberries and blackberries, with elongated, dark red fruit. Marionberries: A blackberry variety developed in Oregon, with large, flavorful berries.

Culinary Uses

Boysenberries can be used in various dishes, such as:

Fresh boysenberries: Eat fresh as a snack or add to fruit salads. Boysenberry pie: Use fresh or frozen boysenberries to make a delicious dessert. Boysenberry jam: Cook boysenberries with sugar and pectin to make a flavorful jam. Boysenberry syrup: Simmer boysenberries with sugar and water to make a syrup for pancakes or ice cream.