The cultivated blackberries are hybrid plants of the genus Rubus, subgenus Eubatus. They are only distantly related to the weed species, Rubus fructicosus Agg.

The following varieties are found in commerce. Descriptive notes are based on performance in Southeast Australia. Fruiting season is dependent on climate and may vary by three weeks from early to late sites. The seasonal data cited refers to the time of abundant supplies in the wholesale markets.