PLANT

Prunus x kerrasis ‘Carmine Jewel’ (commonly known as Carmine Jewel bush cherry o Amareno Carmine Jewel) It is an extraordinary variety of dwarf, compact cherry tree originally developed by the University of Saskatchewan in Canada. This hybrid, resulting from a cross between the dwarf steppe cherry (Prunus fruticosa) and the sour cherry (Prunus cerasus), combines its compact size with incredible productivity and hardiness.

Characteristics of the Plant

• • Compact build: It grows as a dense, upright shrub that usually reaches a maximum height of 2 – 2.5 metres and a similar width. It does not require grafting as it grows from its own roots (own-root). 
  • Ease of harvesting: Thanks to its compact size, the fruit can be easily picked from the ground without the need for a ladder. 
  • Self-fertile: The plant is self-pollinating; it produces excellent harvests even when planted on its own, although the proximity of another compatible variety can increase the yield. 
  • Extreme durability: It is renowned for its exceptional tolerance to extreme cold (down to well below -40 °C) and is also highly resistant to pests, common cherry tree diseases and urban pollution. 

Fruits and the Harvest

• • Appearance: In spring, it is covered in a splendid display of white-pink flowers. This is followed by the ripening of the fruit, which changes from ruby red to a dark red, almost black when fully ripe. 
  • Flavour: Cherries are perfect for sweet-and-sour balance (typical of sour cherries) but they have a remarkably high sugar content (Brix) for this category of fruit. 
  • Use in the kitchen: The flesh has a very intense red colour and is rich in antioxidants (anthocyanins). It has a very small stone, making it ideal not only for eating fresh, but above all for making jams, cakes, juices and syrups.
  • Harvest period: The fruit ripens between June and July. 

Growing Tips

• Exhibition: He prefers positions in full sun to ensure a bountiful harvest of sweet fruit.
• Soil: It is suitable for various types of soil, including clay soils, provided that they are well-drained and prevent waterlogging.
• Growing in pots: Given its compact size, it is the perfect choice for growing in large pots or planters on balconies and terraces.