Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) GERAKL

Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) 'Gerakl' (Геракл)

Popular Russian primocane variety with huge fruits and sturdy growth.

'Gerakl' (Hercules) is one of the most well-known primocane varieties from the Russian breeder I. V. Kazakov. It earned its name thanks to its large to very large fruits and sturdy growth, which does not require support. It is a reliable variety with high yield and resistance.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Large to very large fruits (average 5 – 6 g, max. 11 g).
• Firm, upright shoots – no support required.
• High and stable yield (up to 5 kg per bush).
• Excellent resistance to frost and diseases.
• Suitable for mechanical harvesting and freezing.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Russia
• Institution: Kokino Support Point VSTISP (authors I. V. Kazakov, S. N. Evdokimenko)
• Parentage: 'Autumn Bliss' × seedling №14-205-4
• Registration: 2004

Variety Characteristics

Bush

• Growth: Medium height (1.5 – 2.0 m), moderately spreading.
• Shoots: Very firm and upright. It is thorny (thorns along the entire length).
• Suckering: Forms few replacement shoots.

Fruit

• Size and Weight: Large, averaging 5 – 6 g (max. 11 g).
• Shape and Color: Broad, truncated-conical, rich ruby color.
• Taste: Sweet-sour, refreshing (rating 4.0/5).
• Usage: Universal. Fruits are firm, transport well, ideal market variety.

Resistance and Requirements

• Climate: High frost resistance. Resistant to adverse conditions.
• Disease resistance: High resistance to major diseases and pests.
• Requirements: Undemanding regarding soil. Does not require support.

Harvest and Storage

• Ripening time: Late primocane variety (from August until frost).
• Type: Primocane (autumn bearing). Recommended to grow for a single (autumn) crop.
• Yield: High (10 – 12 t/ha).