Schneiders Späte Knorpelkirsche

‘Schneiders Späte Knorpelkirsche’ is an old German variety renowned for the remarkable size, firmness and quality of its fruit.

The cherry is exceptionally large, broadly heart-shaped with a blunt tip, and has thick, glossy skin that withstands handling well. Initially red, it turns dark reddish brown when fully ripe and remains dotted with numerous small pale spots.

The flesh is exceptionally firm, crisp and fleshy. Initially pale, it gradually develops more colour as the fruit ripens. It is moderately juicy, richly sweet, mild and pleasantly aromatic, making it an excellent dessert cherry. The fruit is also suitable for preserves, jams, compotes and baking.

Harvest is late and generally takes place during July, sometimes continuing into early August in cooler regions. The fruit should be eaten or processed soon after picking, as its natural storage life is short.

The tree is very vigorous and forms a tall crown, initially pyramidal and becoming broader with age. Cropping can be good, but depends heavily on favourable conditions during flowering and the presence of abundant pollinating insects. The fruit is susceptible to rain cracking and may subsequently be affected by brown rot.

‘Schneiders Späte Knorpelkirsche’ is self-sterile and has the incompatibility genotype S3S12. It must be planted with a compatible late-flowering variety such as ‘Kassins Frühe’, ‘Büttners Rote Knorpelkirsche’, ‘Hedelfinger’ or ‘Regina’.