Loganberry vs. Boysenberry: What Is The Difference Between Loganberry and Boysenberry?

Loganberries and boysenberries are both hybrid berry plants, and while they share some similarities, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart.

Published: May 11, 2023.

Loganberry and Boysenberry Similarities and Differences

The most important similarities and differences between loganberries and boysenberries include:

Parentage

Loganberry (Rubus × loganobaccus) is a hybrid between a wild blackberry (Rubus ursinus) and a red raspberry (Rubus idaeus).

Boysenberry (Rubus × boysen) is a complex hybrid, resulting from a cross between a European raspberry (Rubus idaeus), a common blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), an American dewberry (Rubus aboriginum), and a loganberry.

Appearance

Loganberries have long, conical, and slightly bumpy fruit that is dark red to maroon when ripe. The berries resemble an elongated raspberry.

Boysenberries have large, juicy berries with deep maroon or purple, sometimes almost black, color when fully ripe. The fruit is rounder and slightly more bulbous than a loganberry, resembling a large blackberry.

Flavor

Loganberries have a tart, slightly sweet flavor, combining the taste characteristics of both raspberries and blackberries. They are typically less sweet than boysenberries.

Boysenberries have a unique, sweet-tart flavor that is considered a blend of blackberry, raspberry, and loganberry tastes. They are generally sweeter and juicier than loganberries.

Plant Growth

Loganberry plants tend to have a more vigorous growth habit and can be more sprawling than boysenberry plants. They are also more cold-hardy.

Boysenberry plants usually have a more upright growth habit and are less cold-hardy than loganberries. They may require additional winter protection in colder climates.

Soil Requirements

Loganberries prefer well-draining, loamy, or sandy-loam soils. They can tolerate a range of soil types but avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils. Loganberries thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH of around 6.0 to 6.8. Amend the soil with lime or sulfur, if needed, to achieve the desired pH range.

Boysenberries also prefer well-draining, loamy or sandy-loam soils and will struggle in heavy clay or waterlogged conditions. Boysenberries grow best in slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH of around 6.0 to 6.8, similar to loganberries. Adjust soil pH with lime or sulfur as necessary.

Pests and Diseases

Common pests affecting loganberries include aphids, spider mites, raspberry cane borers, and raspberry crown borers. Physical removal, cultural practices, or targeted treatments can be used to manage these pests. Loganberries can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as botrytis (gray mold), powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt, as well as viral diseases like raspberry mosaic virus.

To prevent diseases, maintain good air circulation, provide proper irrigation, and practice regular sanitation, such as removing infected plant material.

Boysenberries can be affected by pests similar to those found on loganberries, including aphids, spider mites, and various borers. Use physical removal, cultural practices, or targeted treatments to manage pests.

Boysenberries are also susceptible to fungal diseases like botrytis, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt, as well as viral diseases such as raspberry mosaic virus. Prevent diseases by ensuring good air circulation, proper irrigation, and regular sanitation, including the removal of infected plant material.

As one can see, both loganberries and boysenberries have similar soil requirements and face similar pests and diseases. Proper soil preparation, plant care, and pest management practices will help ensure healthy, productive plants for both varieties.

Uses

Both loganberries and boysenberries are versatile and can be used similarly in cooking, baking, and preserving. They are great for making jams, jellies, pies, cobblers, and sauces or simply eating fresh.

In short, while loganberries and boysenberries share some similarities due to their hybrid nature, they differ in parentage, appearance, flavor, and plant growth characteristics.

Generally, loganberries are somewhat easier to grow and are more resilient, and boysenberry have perhaps somewhat better taste, although this is highly individual. If You are unsure which one to grow, consider growing them both if You have enough free area in your garden.

Both berries can be enjoyed for their unique taste and versatility in culinary applications.