Vega

‘Vega’ is a Canadian variety remarkable for its exceptionally large, two-coloured cherries, which are both decorative and enjoyable to eat.

The large to very large fruit is broad and slightly heart-shaped. Its pale-yellow to cream skin gradually develops an extensive carmine-red blush on the side exposed to the sun. The pale flesh is firm, crisp and juicy, with a small stone that separates fairly easily.

The flavour is sweet-sharp, fresh and aromatic. The fruit can remain quite acidic when picked too early, so it is preferable to wait until it is fully coloured, allowing it to develop a higher sugar content and its best eating quality.

Harvest generally takes place during the second half of June. The cherries are excellent for eating fresh and are also suitable for tarts, clafoutis, fruit salads, jams and preserves, with their pale flesh providing an attractive presentation.

The tree is vigorous and fairly upright, forming a relatively open crown that may be sparsely branched during its early years. It begins cropping fairly quickly and is fertile and regularly productive.

The fruit can be susceptible to cracking and brown rot when rain occurs close to ripening. An open, sunny position helps improve its colour, sugar content and overall fruit health.

‘Vega’ is self-sterile and has the incompatibility genotype S2S3. It must be planted with a compatible variety flowering at the same time, such as ‘Annabella’, ‘Rainier’ or ‘Stardust’.