| Botanical Name | Rubus fruticosus 'Ouachita' |
| Description | The 'Ouachita' Blackberry is a standout thornless cultivar developed for the Southern climate, making it a favorite for the Willis and Houston area. This 1-gallon (1G) specimen features a strong, upright growth habit that typically does not require a trellis for support. It is celebrated for its exceptionally large, glossy black fruit that balances sweetness with a firm texture, making them excellent for fresh eating, baking, or freezing. Blooming in spring with attractive white flowers, the fruit ripens consistently in June. 'Ouachita' is highly disease-resistant and heat-tolerant, providing a heavy harvest year after year with minimal maintenance. |
| Exposure | Full Sun (Essential for maximum fruit production and sweetness) |
| Height x Width | 4-6' Height x 3-4' Width |
| Water | Moderate; requires consistent moisture, particularly during the flowering and fruiting periods. Mulching is highly recommended in Southeast Texas to retain soil moisture and cool the roots. |
| Zones | 6 - 9 |
| Fertilization | Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins, and again after the harvest is complete. |
| Pruning | Prune the tips of new canes in summer to encourage lateral branching. After harvest, remove the "floricanes" (canes that bore fruit) to the ground to make room for new growth. |
| Deer Resistance | Moderate |
| Botanical Name | Rubus fruticosus 'Ouachita' |
| Description | The 'Ouachita' Blackberry is a standout thornless cultivar developed for the Southern climate, making it a favorite for the Willis and Houston area. This 1-gallon (1G) specimen features a strong, upright growth habit that typically does not require a trellis for support. It is celebrated for its exceptionally large, glossy black fruit that balances sweetness with a firm texture, making them excellent for fresh eating, baking, or freezing. Blooming in spring with attractive white flowers, the fruit ripens consistently in June. 'Ouachita' is highly disease-resistant and heat-tolerant, providing a heavy harvest year after year with minimal maintenance. |
| Exposure | Full Sun (Essential for maximum fruit production and sweetness) |
| Height x Width | 4-6' Height x 3-4' Width |
| Water | Moderate; requires consistent moisture, particularly during the flowering and fruiting periods. Mulching is highly recommended in Southeast Texas to retain soil moisture and cool the roots. |
| Zones | 6 - 9 |
| Fertilization | Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins, and again after the harvest is complete. |
| Pruning | Prune the tips of new canes in summer to encourage lateral branching. After harvest, remove the "floricanes" (canes that bore fruit) to the ground to make room for new growth. |
| Deer Resistance | Moderate |