Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) ORKAN

Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) 'Orkan'

Polish thornless variety with extraordinary frost resistance and high yield.

'Orkan' (translated as "Hurricane") is an excellent Polish blackberry variety, bred specifically for Central European conditions. It earned its name due to its very strong, dynamic growth. It is sought after for its extreme frost resistance (down to -35 °C), thornlessness, and ability to produce exceptionally high yields.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Exceptionally high yield (up to 15 kg per mature bush).
• Excellent frost resistance (down to -35 °C).
• Thornless shoots.
• Wild blackberry flavor.
• Long harvest period (August – October).

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Poland
• Meaning of name: "Gale" or "Hurricane"

Variety Characteristics

Bush

• Growth: Very strong and vigorous, upright with drooping tips. Height 2 – 2.5 m.
• Thorns: Thornless.
• Specifics: Does not form root suckers (non-invasive).

Fruit

• Size: Medium to large, juicy.
• Color: Intense deep black with a slight shine.
• Taste: Full, rich, sweet-sour with an intense sweet touch and a distinct wild blackberry note.
• Usage: Universal – fresh consumption, liqueurs, preserves, syrups.

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost resistance: Excellent (down to -35 °C), one of the most hardy varieties on the market.
• Disease resistance: Impressive resistance, especially to blackberry rust and anthracnose.
• Requirements: Requires a sunny location and support (due to vigorous growth).

Cultivation Recommendations

• Pollination: Partially self-fertile (a pollinator is suitable for maximum yield).
• Pruning: Requires regular removal of old canes after fruiting.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: August to October (long harvest period).
• Yield: Exceptionally high.