Zmeur aromat - Rubus idaeus 'Ottawa'

Rubus idaeus 'Ottawa' is a raspberry cultivar of the Rosaceae family, valued for its large, tasty red berries, as well as its cold hardiness. This variety is ideal for orchards, borders or even large pots, due to its high productivity and quality fruit, suitable for fresh consumption or processing. It is a popular choice in cold climates, due to its hardiness.

Appearance of leaves, flowers and fruits

• Leaves : The leaves are compound, with 3-5 ovate leaflets, serrated edges, medium green, with a slightly rough texture. The foliage is deciduous, falling in winter, and forms a dense background for the fruit.
• Flowers : The flowers are small, white, with 5 petals, grouped in clusters, appearing in May-June. They are discreet, but attract pollinators, especially bees.
• Fruits : The fruits are compound drupes, large, deep red, with a firm texture and a sweet-sour, balanced taste, with a rich aroma. The main harvest takes place in June-July, being ideal for fresh consumption, jams, juices or desserts.

Growth characteristics

• Height and width : Reaches 1.5-2 m high and 1-1.5 m wide, forming an erect shrub with thorny stems, which requires support (trellis or fence).
• Vigor : Fast growing, with sturdy stems, producing fruit on the previous year's stems. It is vigorous and productive.
• Type : Deciduous, non-remontant perennial shrub with a single annual harvest.

Growing conditions

• Exposure : Prefers full sun (6-8 hours/day) for optimal fruiting. Tolerates partial shade, but produces fewer fruits.
• Soil : Grows in fertile, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-6.5). Add compost or well-rotted manure when planting to improve fertility.
• Watering : Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy, especially during fruit formation. Water deeply during dry periods.
• Temperature : Hardy in zones 3-8 (down to -35°C), ideal for cold climates, including Romania. Tolerates severe winters well, but mulch the roots for additional protection.

Care and resistance

• Resistance : Very resistant to cold and common diseases such as leaf spots or anthracnose. May be affected by aphids or mites; treat with organic methods. Tolerates wind and moderate drought well.
• Fertilization : Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g. 10-10-10) in spring, when buds appear, and a fertilizer rich in potassium in summer, for fruiting. Avoid excess nitrogen, which favors leaves at the expense of fruit.
• Pruning : Cut back fruiting stems immediately after harvest (July), down to the ground, and remove weak or damaged branches in spring. Keep 5-7 healthy stems per plant for the next harvest.
• Propagation : Propagate by root cuttings, division of the bushes in spring, or by new shoots from the roots.

Rubus idaeus 'Ottawa' is ideal for fruit gardens, borders or large pots. Its red, aromatic fruits are perfect for fresh consumption, jams, juices or desserts. It combines well with other berries or low ornamental plants, such as lavender. It attracts pollinators, contributing to biodiversity.

Origin

Rubus idaeus is native to Europe and Asia. The cultivar 'Ottawa', developed in Canada, was selected for its cold hardiness and quality fruit, making it popular in regions with harsh winters, including Eastern Europe.

Pot diameter: 11-15 cm (varies depending on batch and season)
Height with pot included: approx. 50-60 cm (varies depending on batch and season)

In the cold season the plants are shortened and leafless.