Loganberry Rubus × loganobaccus 'Ly 59' (F)
ABOUT
Rubus × loganobaccus 'Ly 59' (F) is commonly known as the Boysenberry. This plant is a hybrid with a sprawling growth habit, often needing support to keep its canes off the ground. The Boysenberry produces long, thorny canes that originate from the plant's base. The foliage consists of compound leaves that are typically green with a soft, almost fuzzy texture. Each leaflet is oval-shaped with a pointed end and serrated edges. The Boysenberry's most notable feature is its fruit. The berries are large, with a deep maroon to purplish-black color when ripe. They are an aggregate of numerous drupelets, each containing a small seed. The fruit's surface has a moderate gloss, and they are known for their juicy and slightly tart flavor. Boysenberry plants also bear white to light pink flowers with five petals that eventually give way to the fruit. The blossoms attract pollinators before developing into the characteristic berries enjoyed by many.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Boysenberry
Common names
Rubus × loganobaccus 'Ly 59' (F).
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Rubus × loganobaccus 'Ly 59' (F) is commonly known as the Loganberry. Loganberries are not considered toxic to humans. They are a hybrid of raspberries and blackberries and are consumed widely for their fruit. If eaten in reasonable amounts, loganberries should not cause any symptoms of poisoning in humans, as they are generally regarded as safe to eat. However, it is important to note that some people might have allergies to berries, which could result in adverse reactions such as itching, hives, or more severe symptoms of allergic reactions.
To pets
The plant Rubus × loganobaccus 'Ly 59' (F), commonly referred to as the Loganberry, is not known to be toxic to pets. Like their human companions, most animals can safely consume the fruit of the Loganberry plant without experiencing symptoms of toxicity. As with any non-typical food item, it is possible for pets to experience gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities or if they have a sensitive system, but this is not due to toxicity. Owners should watch for any signs of discomfort or unusual behavior after their pets consume plants, even those considered non-toxic like the Loganberry.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Spread
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Nutritional Value: Loganberries are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and are a good source of fiber and antioxidants.
- Fresh or Processed Fruit: The berries can be enjoyed fresh, or can be used in jams, jellies, pies, and other desserts, offering culinary versatility.
- Home Gardening: As a bramble fruit, it can be grown in home gardens and provides a rewarding gardening experience when the berries ripen.
- Wildlife Attraction: Birds and other wildlife are attracted to the fruit, which can benefit local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Economical: For those who cultivate them, loganberries can be a cost-effective way to produce fruit at home, saving money on grocery bills.
- Landscape Aesthetic: The plant can add aesthetic value to a garden with its lush foliage and fruit.
- Pollinator Support: The flowers of loganberry plants provide food for bees and other pollinators, which is vital for the ecosystem.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The Loganberry can be used as a natural dye due to its deep red juice, which can color fabrics and artworks.
- In ornamental gardening, loganberries can provide a rustic charm to fences and trellises with their sprawling vines.
- The plant's fibers may be utilized in the creation of bio-composite materials, leveraging its strength and sustainability.
- With their thorny branches, loganberry plants can serve as a natural deterrent against unwanted animals in a garden.
- The trimmings from Loganberry plants can be composted to enrich the soil with organic matter.
- Floral arrangements can include Loganberry branches for their unique foliage and texture, especially when berries are present.
- Loganberry canes, when dried and treated, can be fashioned into rustic crafts and garden structures.
- Due to its tendency to attract pollinators, Loganberry plants can be used to boost pollination for nearby fruit-bearing plants in gardens.
- As a teaching tool, Loganberry plants can help educate about hybridization and plant genetics due to their crossbred origins.
- The acidity of the berries can be used in eco-friendly cleaning products, taking advantage of their natural cleaning properties.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Loganberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Loganberry is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hybrid Vitality: Rubus × loganobaccus 'Ly 59' (F), commonly known as Loganberry, is a hybrid plant derived from blackberry and raspberry. It symbolizes hybrid vigor, representing the idea that the combination of diverse genetic backgrounds can lead to greater health and strength.
- Fertility: Berries are often associated with fertility and abundance due to their prolific nature. The loganberry, with its ample fruit production, carries this symbol of fertility and burgeoning growth.
- Balance: As a hybrid that balances characteristics of two different berry plants, loganberry can symbolize the concept of balance, bringing together the best of both to create harmony.
- Creativity: The creation of a new variety through the combination of different species is an act of horticultural creativity. The loganberry represents human ingenuity and the innovative spirit in cultivation.
- Duality: Reflecting its dual heritage, the loganberry can be seen as a symbol of duality — the blending of opposites to create a unified whole.
- Nourishment: Berry plants traditionally symbolize physical and spiritual nourishment, as they provide food for both the body and soul. Loganberries continue this symbolism, offering rich, nutritious fruits.
WaterFor a Loganberry plant, water regularly to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil, especially during the growing season. Frequency depends on weather and soil type, but on average, watering once a week with about 1-2 gallons per plant is sufficient. Adjust watering based on rainfall; during dry spells, water may be needed twice a week while less during periods of rain. In winter, reduce watering as the plant requires less moisture.
LightLoganberries thrive best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The ideal location is a spot that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid areas that are shaded for most of the day, as insufficient light can lead to poor fruit development and increased susceptibility to diseases.
TemperatureLoganberries prefer a temperate climate and are tolerant of a range of temperatures. They can survive occasional dips down to 20°F, but for optimal growth, maintain an environment between 55°F and 85°F. Temperatures above 90°F might stress the plant and require additional care like mulching and more frequent watering.
PruningLoganberries should be pruned to encourage healthy growth and fruit production. Prune in late winter or early spring by removing any dead or damaged canes, and trim the tips of the remaining canes to stimulate branching. Prune spent fruiting canes to ground level after harvest since Loganberries fruit on two-year-old canes; this annual cycle ensures the best yield.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Boysenberry plant thrives best in a soil mix that is rich in organic matter, well-draining, and has a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0-7.0. A blend of garden soil, compost, and peat, with added perlite or sand for improved drainage, would be ideal.
RepottingBoysenberry plants, being perennial, do not require frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. Repotting should be considered when the plant outgrows its current container or shows signs of diminished health.
Humidity & MistingBoysenberries prefer moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor environments, and do not require specific humidity adjustments when grown outside. Avoid excessive humidity to prevent disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and support for trailing vines.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, fertile soil; provide support.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleRubus × loganobaccus 'Ly 59' (F), commonly known as the Loganberry, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring under suitable conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedlings emerge and develop into vegetative plants, which produce compound leaves on canes that can grow quite vigorously. In the second year, these canes, now called floricanes, produce flower buds that bloom in late spring to early summer, with the flowers being pollinated by insects. After pollination, the flowers develop into the characteristic elongated berries, which ripen to a deep purple or black color, usually in mid to late summer. Once the berries are harvested or fall naturally, the perennial plant switches energy back to root and vegetative growth to prepare for the next year’s cycle. In the meantime, the floricanes that bore fruit die back, while new canes, known as primocanes, grow to carry on the cycle in subsequent years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating the Loganberry 'Ly 59' is by tip layering. This involves bending a long, flexible cane to the ground in the fall. Gently wound the tip by scraping or bruising the bark to encourage root formation, and then secure this portion of the cane in the soil using a U-shaped pin. Cover the wounded tip with about 2 inches (5 cm) of soil, making sure to leave the rest of the cane exposed to the light. Over the winter, roots will develop at the buried tip. By the next spring, the rooted tip can be severed from the parent cane and transplanted to a new location to grow into a new plant. This technique takes advantage of the plant's natural tendency to root from trailing canes and is quite efficient for expanding the garden with new Loganberry plants.
