Type
thorny trailing cane
Boysenberry variety
Boysen Boysenberry
The original boysenberry type, producing very large, dark purple-black berries with rich raspberry-blackberry flavor. The soft fruit is best picked ripe and used promptly.
Season
early to mid-summer
Best for
fresh eating, pies, preserves
About Boysen
Boysen is the classic boysenberry, a trailing bramble hybrid with very large, dark maroon-black berries and a rich, wine-like sweet-tart flavor. The fruit is delicate and is best used or chilled quickly after picking.
Growing Boysen Boysenberry
Train canes on a trellis and remove spent floricanes after harvest. Provide full sun, good drainage, and protection from cane diseases, then pick berries when fully dark, glossy, and easily released.
Full growing guide
For planting, care, pollination, and harvest that apply to all boysenberry, see the complete guide.
How to grow BoysenberryOther boysenberry varieties
Variety characteristics are general guidance for US home gardens; chill hours, hardiness, and pollination vary, so confirm suitability for your zone. Availability differs by supplier. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.