Click here for Blackberry Care Guide Rubus spp. – Ponca Blackberry Ponca is considered one of the sweetest blackberry cultivars in the world. This thornless variety produces exceptionally flavorful berries with remarkable consistency from berry to berry. The fruit ripens early and has a rich, balanced sweetness that sets it apart from many other blackberry varieties. Plants are very erect, vigorous, and highly productive, making them easy to manage in the home garden or small orchard. The canes show excellent overall plant health and reliable performance in a wide range of climates. Developed by the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture’s fruit breeding program, Ponca is the 20th blackberry released from the program and is considered one of their most outstanding varieties, particularly for its flavor and fruit quality. Spacing: 3'–4' between plantsZones: 5–9 Plant Characteristics Pest Resistance: Very Good Disease Resistance: Excellent Drought Tolerance: Good Heat Tolerance: Excellent Humidity Tolerance: Excellent Sun Tolerance: Excellent Wet Soil Tolerance: Fair Shade Tolerance: Fair No Spray: Excellent Fresh for Kids: Excellent Thorns: No Soil Type: Adaptable Edible Type: Berry Self Fertile: Yes This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge, comments/opinions are always welcome.