Blackberry (Marion) 'Marion'

Sunset

Zones 4-9, 14-24, 26, 28-41

Full, Partial

Moderate

Marionberry
Rosaceae
Edible fruit, Perennials

Developed by a USDA cross of Chehalem x Olallie berries, this is a trailing, midseason berry whose rich, flavorful fruit sets the standard. Thorny canes can grow 10 ft. in a season, but are commonly controlled by pruning and trellising. Roots are perennial, but canes are biennial: they grow to full length the first season. The second season they bear clusters of white flowers followed by fruit.

Marion types include Black Diamond , a thornless variety; late-ripening Waldo , with berries that maintain their shape when cooked; and Black Butte , Silvan , and Siskiyou , all early ripeners with excellent flavor.