The History of the Boysenberry

The Boysenberry is the berry that started it all for Knott's Berry Farm. It's hard to believe that a little hybrid berry could make such a major impact. Yet, who knows where California's first theme park would be without it? Here is a little history of the Boysenberry to celebrate over 100 years of the Boysenberry Festival.

What is a Boysenberry?

First of all, a Boysenberry is a hybrid berry. It is a cross between a Loganberry, Red Raspberry, and Blackberry. As someone who grew up with Boysenberry vines in their southern California backyard, I can tell you that it's a hardy plant that can produce quite a bit of the dark purple berry!

The History of the Boysenberry

Although Walter Knott is connected to the Boysenberry in a big way, we actually have Rudolf Boysen to thank for it. A Swedish immigrant, Boysen had a ranch in the Napa Valley area of California. He loved experimenting with new varieties and cross-breeds of flowers and berry plants. Although Boysen's experiment did well and produced large berries, over time he neglected his plants and sold his ranch when he moved down to southern California.

Thankfully, before he did so he passed on some of the hybrid plants to another farmer. This farmer, who eventually got in touch with Mr. George Darrow at the US Department of Agriculture. It was Darrow who saw the potential in the plants and got Walter Knott to assist in tracking down Rudolf Boysen. Eventually, after some trial and error, the Boysenberry vines were seen to be an incredibly successful hybrid berry plant.

What About the Name?

Walter Knott easily could have named the new berry for himself. In fact, many of his friends suggested that he do so. Instead, Knott consulted with the US Government Bureau of Plant Industries and the name Boysenberry was decided on. Though this delicious hybrid berry might not be named for Walter Knott, it's thanks to him that it's around today. Due to his hard work and perseverance, every Boysenberry plant in the world is descended from his "little" farm in Buena Park, California.

Celebrating History at the Boysenberry Festival

As part of his marketing genius, Walter Knott himself started a "Taste of Boysenberry Festival". This was the perfect way to introduce this delicious hybrid berry to the public. The Boysenberry quickly became popular with the public thanks to its flavor and larger-than normal size.

Today, the Boysenberry Festival is a must-attend food and wine festival. It features over 70 delicious Boysenberry-inspired dishes, limited edition merchandise, and fun shows that the whole family will love. Unique and seasonal offerings can be purchased a la carte or with a festival tasting card. The Boysenberry Festival at Knott's Berry Farm runs every spring. Dates for the current year can be found on the Knott's Berry Farm website.