Blackberry - Chester Thornless Rubus spp.

Common Name:
Chester thornless blackberry

Description:
Rubus spp. ‘Chester Thornless’ is a vigorous, late-season fruiting blackberry variety prized for its high yields of large, glossy black berries and completely thornless canes, making harvesting far easier and safer. This deciduous bramble produces masses of sweet to mildly tart fruit from mid to late summer, ideal for fresh eating, jams, desserts, and freezing. It features strong, upright to semi-trailing canes that benefit from support such as a trellis or wire system. In Melbourne conditions, it performs best in a sunny position with fertile, well-drained soil and consistent moisture during the growing and fruiting season. ‘Chester Thornless’ is known for its good disease resistance, reliable productivity, and ability to tolerate a range of climates, making it a popular choice for home gardens and productive landscapes.

Form:
• Climber
• Shrub - Large

Mature Size:
• Height: 1.5–2.5 m (with support)
• Width: 2–3 m

Aspect:
• Full Sun

Flowering:
• Flowers in Spring
• Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
• White
• Pale pink

Key Attributes:
• Edible Fruit
• Suitable for Pots (with support and maintenance)
• Bird Attracting
• Bee Attracting
• Perennial
• Thornless canes
• High yielding variety
• Suitable for Trellising
• Suitable for Espalier
• Deciduous
• Excellent for Home Produce Gardens
• Good disease resistance

Toxicity:
Fruit is edible and safe for human consumption. No significant toxicity to humans or animals is commonly associated with this plant.

Companion Plants:
• Strawberry
• Blueberry
• Raspberry
• Currant
• Gooseberry
• Lavender
• Thyme
• Comfrey