Zmeur de vara performant - Rubus idaeus 'Sanibelle' (cultura biologica)

Rubus idaeus 'Sanibelle' , also known as "Sanibelle raspberry" or Sanibelle® , is a summer (non-remontant) raspberry cultivar of the Rosaceae family, developed by Lubera and introduced exclusively by the company. It is renowned for its large, sweet, dark red fruit, and for its exceptional resistance to Phytophthora (root rot), making it ideal for heavier or wet soils. This variety is perfect for gardens, farms or containers, offering a generous harvest and superior fruit quality.

Appearance of leaves, flowers and fruits

• Leaves : The leaves are pinnate, composed of 3-7 leaflets, light to medium green , with serrated edges, 3-10 cm. They are arranged alternately on the stems, with a slightly rough texture, and form a healthy, disease-resistant foliage.
• Flowers : The flowers are small, white, with 5 petals, slightly pinkish, grouped in racemes, appearing from May to July . They are self-fertile, attracting bees and bumblebees, and contribute to efficient pollination.
• Fruits : The fruits are large, conical , dark to medium red , weighing about 10 g. They have a firm, juicy pulp, with a sweet, aromatic taste, ideal for fresh consumption, jams, juices, freezing or desserts. The harvest begins in June and continues until August , the fruits being produced on biennial stems.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Grows to 1.2-1.6 meters tall and 0.8-1.2 meters wide , with an upright habit, slightly arched under the weight of the fruit. It is compact, suitable for small spaces.
• Vigor : Moderately fast growth (40-120 cm/year), with reddish-brown stems, slightly spiny (small, non-aggressive thorns). Forms thickets, which can be controlled with root barriers.
• Type : Deciduous, perennial shrub with superficial roots, fruiting on two-year-old stems (summer raspberry).

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun (6+ hours/day) for sweet, abundant fruit, but tolerates partial shade , where production may be lower. Sun intensifies fruit flavor.
• Soil : Requires fertile, well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-6.5), rich in organic matter. Resistance to Phytophthora allows cultivation in heavier or wetter soils, but drainage remains essential.
• Watering : Water regularly , keeping the soil moist but allowing the surface to dry out between waterings. In containers, water every 7-10 days, more often during hot periods.
• Temperature : Hardy in zones 4-9 (down to -30°C), suitable for temperate climates, including Romania. Mulch the roots in winter in colder areas.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : Exceptionally resistant to Phytophthora and other stem diseases, due to rigorous selection. Not resistant to deer or rabbits, which may eat the leaves. Attracts pollinators such as bees and bumblebees.
• Fertilization : Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) in March-April , followed by a fertilizer high in potassium (e.g. 5-10-20) during flowering. Use slow-release fertilizers in spring for consistent nutrition.
• Pruning : Cut the fruiting stems 5-10 cm from the ground after harvest (autumn or winter), as the fruit appears on biennial stems. Keep 6-8 new stems per plant for the next harvest. Remove unwanted canes.
• Pests and diseases : Rarely affected, but may attract mites, aphids or mealybugs. Inspect regularly and use insecticidal soap. Phytophthora resistance reduces the risk of root rot.
• Propagation : Propagate by layering or root cuttings in spring.
• Support : Requires trellis or support wires to keep stems tidy and facilitate harvesting.

Use

Rubus idaeus 'Sanibelle' is ideal for fruit gardens , vegetable gardens , containers or fruit hedges . Its large, sweet fruits are excellent for fresh consumption, jams, juices, desserts or freezing (keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days). It combines well with other berries, such as blackberries or the remontant raspberry 'Autumn First', for a productive corner. It is suitable for amateur gardeners or small farms, due to its easy maintenance and resistance to difficult conditions.

Origin

Developed by Lubera and selected in Weihenstephan (Germany), 'Sanibelle' is a modern summer raspberry, introduced for its large fruits, excellent taste and resistance to Phytophthora. Its name reflects the health ("sani-") and beauty ("belle") of the plant, making it a reference variety for organic cultivation .

Pot diameter: 13 cm
Height with pot included: approx. 35 cm

In the cold season the plants are shortened and leafless.