Thornless Blackberry 'Arapaho'

The 'Arapaho' Thornless Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) is an early-season standout, producing glossy, jet-black berries with a perfect balance of sweetness and snap—ideal for fresh eating, baking, or freezing. Its sturdy, thornless canes form a compact, semi-erect thicket of deep green foliage, requiring minimal support and no trellis (though heavy fruit loads may benefit from it). Ripening before peak pest season, this low-maintenance variety resists common diseases, tolerates heat and drought, and offers a cleaner harvest with its upright growth habit. Whether in small gardens or containers, 'Arapaho' delivers abundant, sun-warmed fruit with little effort—just plant it in sunshine and enjoy the rewards.

 

Scientific Name: Rubus fruticosus 'Arapaho'
Height: 4–6 ft 
Spread: 3–4 ft 
Light: Full sun 
Water: Medium 
Blooms: Flowers in late spring, berries in early summer, ripens in June/July