Marionberries are a hybrid of blackberries and raspberries, developed in Oregon. They have a sweet, summery flavor and are sturdier than blackberries, making them suitable for commercial production. They are harvested by hand and can be used in a variety of ways, from jams to smoothies.
Marionberries are a berry cultivar developed in Oregon. They are named after Marion County, a region where the berries were tested extensively during their early years. They continue to be grown extensively in this region of Oregon. Marionberries are exported around the world during their growing season, and there are a number of marionberry products produced in Oregon, ranging from marmalade to barbecue sauce.
These berries are the result of a cross between the Chehalem and Ollalieberry cultivars. These two cultivars are also hybrids, combining characteristics of blackberries and raspberries. Marionberries have a very full, sweet flavor that some people describe as “summery,” with a hint of tartness to the finish. They are somewhat sturdier than blackberries, making them more suitable for commercial production and marketing because they are less prone to rotting and bruising.
Marionberries are cane berries, growing on long canes with a trailing growth habit. These berries have been bred to produce in high volumes, another trait that makes them ripe for commercial sale. They are at their peak maturity in July and are longer than they are wide, with a rich ruby red almost black color. Although tougher than blackberries, marionberries are delicate and very juicy. That delicacy means they have to be harvested by hand, not machine, which contributes to their slightly higher cost.
This berry cultivar was formally introduced to the world in 1956 by George F. Waldo. It is one among a large assortment of berries introduced around this time in Oregon and along the West Coast of the United States. Marionberries are designed to thrive in Oregon’s cool, moist environment and can also be grown in parts of northern California and southern Washington. Some garden stores carry marionberry canes for growing, and they can also be ordered through specialized cane berry companies.
There are many ways to use marionberries. They can be used just like blackberries in jams, cobblers, pies and fruit salads. They can also be eaten out of hand, blended into berry sauces for savory and sweet foods, baked into breads and other treats, and blended into smoothies and berry drinks. Marionberries freeze very well, for cooks who like to have stock on hand, and can also be pureed for easier freezing, if cooks intend to use the berries in sauces or smoothies.
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