Rubus 'Karaka Black' | Blackberry Bush
An exceptional cultivar that is perfect if you want a single plant
Superb variety originating from New Zealand. Karaka Black has long arching stems that bear lobed mid-green leaves and white flowers in Summer. The flowers are followed by exceptionally long and large shiny black fruit that is firm, easy to pick and above all has an excellent flavour. The berries are superb for freezing and ideal for all-purpose use. Very long season running from early July through to September. Karaka Black is quick to establish itself and very easy to grow, it also has an excellent disease resistance to downy mildew. Recommended by the RHS as an excellent attractant and nectar source for bees and other beneficial insects. A quite outstanding performer!
In trials in New Zealand, Karaka Black produced more than 2X the yield of other popular blackberries such as Waldo and Silvan - around 15t/ha. The berries themselves are incredibly long, firm and shiny and boast exceptional flavour. Each berry usually weighs over 10g and carry a deep purple to black shine. This variety has been recommended by the RHS as an excellent attractant to bees and wildlife and although a new cultivar, is now the most planted blackberry in the UK due to it’s bumper crops and great tasting fruit.
Variety Information
- Harvesting Period: Summer
- Estimated Time to Best Yields: 2 Years
- Uses: Eating Fresh, Jam-Making, Cooking
- Supplied As: 3L Pot
- Height on Arrival: 20cm (8 Inches)
- Planting Distance: 1-2.5m
- Eventual Height & Spread: 2m x 2m (6.5 x 6.5ft)
- With bare root plants, you should soak their roots in water for up to 2 hours before planting, while with potted plants, you should drench their rootball.
- Hardiness: Native to the UK, your blackberry or raspberry plant is well accustomed to the milder climate.
- Position: Planting in full sun is always recommended, however they still tolerate light shade.
- Soil: Soil types can be an unwelcome confusion as many plants will adapt to their conditions. Nonetheless, less than ideal conditions will certainly limit your plant’s growth. Waterlogged soils will starve your plant of oxygen, which plays a key role in photosynthesis; causing its roots to rot and creating an optimal environment for disease.
| Is Collection/Mix? | No |
|---|---|
| Needs Ericaceous Compost? | No |