Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) GUSAR

Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) 'Gusar' (Гусар)

Proven Russian variety with high resistance and few thorns.

'Gusar' is a highly valued Russian raspberry variety bred at the Kokino research center. It is popular for its low maintenance, excellent resistance to frost, drought, and diseases, and quality fruits. The shoots have few thorns, which facilitates harvesting and care.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Excellent resistance to frost (-35 °C), drought, and diseases.
• High and stable yield (up to 5 – 6 kg per bush).
• Large ruby-red fruits (3.2 – 4 g) with firm skin.
• Few thorns (thorns only at the bottom of shoots).
• Universal usage and good transportability.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Russia
• Institution: Kokino Support Point (authors I. V. Kazakov, V. L. Kulagina, S. D. Aytzhanova)
• Parentage: Open pollination of 'Canby' (with pollen from resistant varieties)
• Registration: 1999 (Russia)

Variety Characteristics

Bush

• Growth: Strong, tall (1.5 – 2.5 m), compact but spreading (requires support).
• Shoots: Strong, straight, few thorns (thorns only at the bottom).

Fruit

• Size and Weight: Large, averaging 3.2 – 4 g (max. 10 g).
• Shape and Color: Blunt-conical, rich ruby red, shiny.
• Taste: Sweet-sour (sweetness dominates), distinct aroma.
• Usage: Universal. Firm fruits, dry detachment, transport well.

Resistance and Requirements

• Climate: High frost resistance and resistance to drought and heat.
• Disease resistance: High complex resistance to fungal diseases and viruses. Also resistant to spider mites.
• Requirements: Undemanding regarding soil, but requires support.

Harvest and Storage

• Ripening time: Mid-early (mid-July). Summer bearing (once a year).
• Yield: High and stable.