Description
Growth & Care
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone | 3a |
Growth Rate | Average |
Recommended Pruning Method | Late Winter Pruning |
Fruit Tree Pollinator Requirement | Better With Pollinator |
Foliage
Foliage Type | Deciduous |
Fall Color | Yellow |
Plant Form | Upright Spreading |
Flowers
Flower Fragrance | Unscented |
Additional Categories
Additional Category | Ribes |
Landscape Application | Orchard |
Details
Planting & Growing
Jostaberry will grow to be about 6 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 6 feet. It has a low canopy, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 20 years. While it is considered to be somewhat self-pollinating, it tends to set heavier quantities of fruit with a different variety of the same species growing nearby.
This shrub is typically grown in a designated area of the yard because of its mature size and spread. It does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers to grow in average to moist conditions, and shouldn't be allowed to dry out. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. This particular variety is an interspecific hybrid.
Features & Attributes
Jostaberry has rich green deciduous foliage on a plant with an upright spreading habit of growth. The lobed leaves turn yellow in fall. It features an abundance of magnificent plum purple berries in early summer, which fade to black over time.
This is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition. This plant will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It is a good choice for attracting birds and butterflies to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.
Aside from its primary use as an edible, Jostaberry is sutiable for the following landscape applications:
Orchard/Edible Landscaping
Edible Qualities
Jostaberry is a medium-sized shrub that is typically grown for its edible qualities. It produces plum purple round berries which are usually ready for picking from early to mid summer. The berries will often fade to black over time. The berries have a tangy taste and a juicy texture.
The berries are most often used in the following ways:
Fresh Eating, Baking, Preserves