Jostaberry

A compact, neat growing deciduous shrub which has lobed green leaves throughout the warmer seasons before turning yellow and dropping in Winter. The plant’s growth habit and shape resemble that of a Black Currant. The flowers appear in Spring which is then followed by small rounded, dark-coloured fruits. Just like a Black Currant, the fruit may require protection from birds. Fruit forms on previous years growth, it is best to keep pruning to a minimum otherwise fruiting might be set back. Jostaberry plants have a sweet, slightly sour flavour making them ideal to be used for jams, jellies, drinks or other desserts. Best grown in colder areas as these plants are frost hardy. These fruiting shrubs will fruit and grow better when exposed to colder climates.

These are self-fertile, non-suckering shrubs which require little pruning. Ideal to be grown in containers, courtyard/patio gardens or in a food garden. Best grown in free-draining, humus-rich soil in all day sun. Jostaberry has moderate water requirements once established, however, consistent watering when the fruit is developing will ensure better quality, yield and flavour.

Position: Full sun
Height: 1-2m   Width: 1-2m
Harvest: February/March
Can be pruned to 1m x 1m