Red Currant shrub (Ribes rubrum) ORLOVSKAYA ZVEZDA

Red Currant (Ribes rubrum) 'Orlovskaya Zvezda' (Орловская Звезда)

Very late Russian variety with high pectin content, ideal for processing.

'Orlovskaya Zvezda' is a Russian red currant variety bred at the All-Russian Research Institute (VNIISPK). It is specific for its very late ripening and high content of pectin substances, making it excellent for jams and jellies. The bushes are tall, hardy, and resistant to powdery mildew.

Main advantages of the variety:

• High pectin content (excellent gelling properties).
• Very late ripening (season extension).
• Large fruits (0.6 – 0.9 g).
• High yield and frost resistance.
• Resistance to powdery mildew.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Russia
• Institution: VNIISPK (All-Russian Research Institute of Fruit Crop Breeding)
• Parentage: 'Rote Spätlese' × 'Minnesota'
• Registration: In state testing since 2001

Variety Characteristics

Bush

• Growth: Tall, slightly spreading, medium density.
• Leaves: Large, green, matte, with slightly raised edges.

Fruit

• Size: Large, weighing 0.6 – 0.9 g.
• Shape and Color: Round, red.
• Cluster: Long (up to 12 cm), dense.
• Taste: Sweet-sour.
• Usage: Mainly suitable for processing (high gelling properties).

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost resistance: The variety is hardy.
• Disease resistance: Not affected by powdery mildew. Moderately susceptible to Septoria (white leaf spot).

Harvest and Storage

• Ripening time: Very late.
• Yield: High.