Blackberry Varieties for Wisconsin

Rubus Wisconsinenis

• Rubus Wisconsinenis or Wisconsin blackberry is a native plant of not only Wisconsin but also Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois. This plant bears large, black, multiglobed fruit. Canes can be found in the wild, and grow in full or partial sun. Constant pruning will be needed when cultivating this variety in a home garden.

Rubus Rosa

• Rose blackberries have tinted blossoms and bear fruit in the late summer. This is a very hardy variety of blackberry that survives in sub-zero temperatures. Rose blackberries have been known to thrive in even alpine environments. Established plants require little care, but new plants will need water and well drained soil.

Rubus Occidentalis

• Sometimes called dewberries, this variety of blackberry is found wild as far north as Quebec Canada. The fruit grows toward the center of the bush, protecting the fragile berries from the cold. Deeper rooted than many of its southern cousins, this variety is well suited to harsher northern winters.

Rubus Frondosus

• Rubus Frondosus, or the Yankee blackberry, can be found over most of the Eastern United States and Canada. They extend as far north as Northern Ontario, Canada and as far south as Southern Georgia. Like dewberries, this fruit is very well protected and can be found toward the center of the thorn bearing canes.