Blackberries, like raspberries are a member of the rose family.  It has a similar growth habit where it will sprout roots wherever a branch touches the ground.

They are often confused with black raspberries but once you know the difference, it’s quite simple to tell them apart.  When you pick a raspberry, it comes off of the “torus” and you have a hollow fruit.  The torus is the white bump on the end of the stem where the berry grows.  When you pick a blackberry, the torus comes with it and you have a solid fruit.

The plants also do not technically have thorns like raspberries.  However they are covered with “prickles” which can be just as annoying when you’re trying to get to those delicious berries.

 Besides being a tasty fruit, parts of the plant have been used for medicinal purposes and to make tea.

 As the berries develop they turn red and when ripe, turn to the dark color we are familiar with. 

 Plants are loved by pollinators as well as many insects and deer. 

 The fruit is very healthy.  If you can protect the plants, you’ll have a wonderful treat.