These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
Minimum of 3 plants per order.
Jewel Black Raspberry (Rubus occidentalis 'Jewel')
Key Characteristics
Origin: 'Jewel' is a popular black raspberry cultivar developed at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva. It was released in 1967. It is a cross between 'Bristol' and ' Dundee' and is known for its high yields and good fruit quality.
Patent Status: 'Jewel' Black Raspberry is not patented. As a cultivar introduced in 1967, any potential patent protection has long since expired. Therefore, there are no restrictions on its asexual reproduction, propagation, or sale based on patent law.
Berry Production: Produces medium to large-sized, firm, black berries with a rich, sweet, and slightly tart flavor characteristic of black raspberries. It is a very productive mid-season variety. The berries are relatively easy to pick.
Ripening Time: 'Jewel' is a mid-season ripening black raspberry, typically ready for harvest in late June to early July, depending on the local climate.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Jewel' has vigorous, arching canes (floricanes) that typically require support from a trellis or other system. Black raspberries produce new canes (primocanes) from the base each year. Mature plants can reach 4-6 feet in height.
Flowers: Produces typical white raspberry-like flowers in the spring on the floricanes (second-year canes). It is self-pollinating.
Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 8. It is considered a reliable variety for these regions.
Pollination: 'Jewel' is self-fertile and does not require a pollinator to set fruit. However, planting multiple black raspberry plants can still improve overall yield.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal fruit production and flavor.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5). Good drainage is crucial to prevent root diseases.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during fruit development and ripening. Avoid overwatering and waterlogged conditions.
Fertilizing: Benefits from appropriate fertilization in early spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to overly vigorous vegetative growth.
Pruning: Black raspberries require specific pruning. After fruiting (usually in July), the floricanes that produced fruit should be removed at ground level. In late winter or early spring, the lateral branches on the remaining primocanes should be shortened to encourage better fruiting.
Uses: The berries are excellent for:
Fresh eating due to their intense flavor.
Making jams, jellies, and preserves, which are particularly flavorful with black raspberries.
Freezing.
Baking and desserts.
Juice production.
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the berries are a food source for birds.
Ornamental Value: The arching canes with dark berries can add some visual interest to the garden.
Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Jewel' is known for having good resistance to several common black raspberry diseases, including anthracnose and viruses. However, it can still be susceptible to other pests and diseases, so monitoring is recommended.
