Lawton Blackberry

Lawton blackberry is an old heirloom blackberry variety known for strong, vigorous cane growth and a traditional summer-bearing habit. It grows on biennial canes, which means the plant usually produces leafy first-year canes called primocanes, then fruits on those same canes in their second year as floricanes. After fruiting, those older canes should be removed so the plant can put its energy into new growth for the following season.
This variety is generally known for producing long, arching canes that can spread if left unmanaged, so it benefits from regular pruning and some type of support or training system. A trellis is often helpful because it keeps the patch neater, improves airflow, and makes harvesting easier. Lawton can form a fairly dense planting over time, especially when grown in good soil with full sun and regular moisture. Because of that, spacing and yearly cleanup are important parts of keeping the plants productive.
Lawton blackberry grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. Like many blackberries, it responds well to steady moisture during active growth, but it does not like soggy ground. Once established, it can be quite vigorous and productive. The plant is also thorny, so harvesting and pruning usually require gloves and a little extra care.
In overall growth habit, Lawton is a strong old-fashioned blackberry that is best suited for growers who do not mind a more traditional, vigorous, thorny patch. With proper pruning and support, it can become a productive planting that returns year after year.
Plant Details
Quick Facts
- Botanical
- Rubus
- Type
- Floricane heirloom
- Fruit Color
- Glossy black
- Fruit Taste
- Sweet, juicy
- Thorns
- Thorned (some report few)
Growing Conditions
- USDA Zones
- 3-8
- Sun Needs
- Full sun
- Soil pH
- 5.5-6.5
- Spacing
- 4-6 ft
- Mature Height
- 5-8 ft
Pollination & Care
- Self-Fertile
- Yes
- Pollination
- Self-fertile.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Data Confidence
- Med
Harvest
- Season
- July - August
Growing Zones: 3–8
Hardy down to zone 3 (-40 to -30°F)
Match the shaded zones above to find your growing region. Source: USDA 2023 Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
How we ship
Most orders go out via UPS with a 2-3 day transit time to most of the continental U.S. Plants are shipped dormant in late winter / early spring, packed wet to protect the root systems, and bundled by variety so they're ready to plant on arrival.
Hawaii & Alaska orders
For HI and AK addresses we ship via USPS. The other major carriers either don't service these areas for live plants or charge prohibitive rates that would more than double the cost of your order. USPS gives us a reliable, affordable path to get plants to you in good condition.
Want UPS or FedEx anyway?
If you're in HI or AK and want to use UPS or FedEx and cover the upgraded shipping cost, reach out to us immediately after placing your order with your order number. We'll send you the available options and a quote, and you can pick what works for you.
Region overview
Continental U.S.
UPS Ground, 2-3 day transit. Free shipping on orders $100+.
Hawaii & Alaska
USPS Priority Mail. Reach out post-order if you want a UPS/FedEx upgrade quote.
Arrive-alive guarantee
Every order is backed by our 30-day arrive-alive guarantee. If a plant doesn't make it through transit, we'll replace it. Just send us a photo within 30 days of delivery.
Questions?
Call or text us at (720) 630-3715, or email support@fruitbushes.com. We answer within one business day.




