Youngberry NEW

Youngberry: A Juicy Hybrid with Old-World Charm

The youngberry (Rubus caesius × Rubus idaeus × Rubus fruticosus) is a delicious hybrid bramble fruit, developed in the early 20th century in Louisiana, USA, by Byrnes M. Young, after whom it is named. It’s a cross between the blackberry, raspberry, and dewberry, combining the best traits of all three. This berry gained popularity for its rich, sweet flavor, deep reddish-purple hue, and low acidity. Youngberries are particularly well-suited to warmer climates and are a favorite in home gardens across Australia, the southern U.S., and parts of Europe.

Description

Youngberries grow on trailing canes that are thorny, although often less aggressively so than wild blackberries. The plants can spread vigorously, forming dense thickets if left unmanaged. They produce masses of small white flowers in spring, followed by clusters of juicy berries in summer. The fruit is medium to large, with a softer skin than standard blackberries, and a sweeter, more complex flavor — often described as a mix between raspberry and blackberry, with a touch of wine-like richness.

Care Tips

Youngberries thrive in full sun and prefer well-draining, fertile soils rich in organic matter. They benefit from a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0–7.0). Choose a site with good air circulation to help prevent fungal diseases like mildew or rust.

Plant in winter or early spring, spacing canes about 1.5–2 meters apart. Provide a trellis or wire support for the trailing canes to keep fruit off the ground and make harvesting easier. Prune annually in late summer after fruiting: remove old, spent canes and thin out new growth to promote better airflow and higher yields. Regular mulching, deep watering during dry spells, and a light feed of compost or balanced fertilizer in early spring will keep the plants productive and healthy.

Culinary Uses

Youngberries are a kitchen delight — their rich, tangy-sweet flavor is perfect for fresh eating, baking, preserving, and even winemaking. Use them in pies, crumbles, jams, sauces, smoothies, and desserts, or pair them with cheese and charcuterie for a gourmet twist. Because they are softer and more perishable than blackberries, they’re best enjoyed fresh or frozen shortly after harvest.

With their exceptional flavor and relatively easy maintenance, youngberries are a rewarding addition to any edible garden.