A new primocane raspberry cultivar that promises improved yields, better flavour and an extended shelf life will be launched by Hargreaves Plants in spring 2008.
The Erika variety was bred by Sant’Orsola in northern Italy and has been rigorously tested across Europe over the last three years.
Hargreaves Plants holds the worldwide rights to the variety, which it regards as the most exciting new primocane cultivar to hit the market in a long time.
Trials have shown Erika has excellent yields for spring and autumn cropping, with an average berry weight of 5.4g, a consistent conical shape, a bright orange-red colour and a flavour similar to the Tulameen variety, according to Hargreaves.
The berry plugs easily, does not darken after picking and has a shelf life of more than four days.
Jamie Petchell, product manager for raspberries at Hargreaves Plants, explained: “Erika is an all-round improvement on existing primocane varieties, with better flavour, better quality overall, and better yield.”
A limited quantity of plant material will be available in modules for spring 2008 and plants for the 2009 season will be grown to order.
The company has also revealed that new releases of floricane cultivars are also planned for the near future.
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