Name: Rubus 'Ouachita' (Ouachita Thornless Blackberry)

Average Landscape Size: 5–6 ft tall × 3–4 ft wide; semi-upright, thornless canes

Sun Requirements: Full sun; minimum 6 hours direct sunlight for optimal berry production and flavor

Water Needs: Moderate; consistent moisture during fruit development, drought tolerant once established

Deer Resistance: Low; wildlife protection may be necessary during fruiting season

Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 6–9; excellent winter hardiness for Willis area

Fertilization & Pruning: Balanced fertilizer in early spring; annual removal of spent canes after harvest, maintain 4-6 strongest new canes

Detailed Description: Meet the blackberry that commercial growers love – and now you can have it in your backyard! Ouachita produces absolutely gorgeous berries that are large, glossy, and packed with that perfect sweet-tart flavor that makes your mouth water. These thornless canes are incredibly disease-resistant, which means more successful harvests here in Willis' humid summers. The berries are firm enough to hold their shape in pies and jams, but sweet enough to pop right in your mouth while picking. This variety consistently produces heavy crops and has proven itself as one of the most reliable blackberries for our Texas climate!