Jewel Black Raspberry

Species: Rubus occidentalis

History: Jewel black raspberries were bred by Cornell University in New York in an effort to create productive and vigorous black raspberry varieties. It was bred in 1954 as a cross between Bristol and Dundee black raspberries.

Why We Grow It: Black raspberries are a special treat with less tang than red raspberries, and more of that musky sweetness that black berries (mulberries, blackberries, etc.) have. Steph eats these berries by the handful - delicious! This variety produces nice clusters of sweet juicy berries. The plant itself reaches about a meter high and wide. It can spread over the years, creating a most delicious fence line if you let it!

Canadian Hardiness Zone: 4

Soil Preference: Loam and sandy loam, prefers soils that are moist but well-drained

Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Vigorous and hardy with an upright and spreading growth habit. Generally disease resistant but avoid planting within 75-100ft of non-black raspberries to reduce the risk of aphids spreading viruses to the black raspberry plants.

Class: Floricane, bears fruit in the summer and only on second year growth

Thorns: Yes

Sun/Shade: Full sun (approx. 8-10 hours of sun daily)

Pollination: Self-pollinating, this variety will produce fruit without a different raspberry variety but will produce more and better fruit if one is present    

Bloom Colour: White

Ripens: July

Storage: Keeps less than a week when stored in the fridge

Recommended Use: Fresh eating, drying, juice

Height Above Soil Line: 20-40cm