The Eastern European Trio: Introducing 'Chereshnevaya', 'Selechenskaya', and 'Veloj' Blackcurrants

For the Spring 2026 season (sales late May/June), we have reached for proven quality from the East. Russian and Ukrainian blackcurrant breeding ranks among the world's elite, especially regarding taste, fruit size, and frost resistance. These three varieties prove that blackcurrant doesn't have to be just a sour "medicinal plant" but a true dessert fruit.

“Eastern varieties debunk myths about blackcurrant tartness. The 'Selechenskaya' variety achieved a score of 4.9 out of 5 in tasting tests, and 'Veloj' a full 5 points, ranking them among the tastiest currants in the world.”

1. 'Chereshnevaya' (Cherry-like): The Ukrainian All-Rounder

This variety from the Institute of Horticulture of UAAN in Ukraine earned its name not only thanks to its color but also its quality. It is a vigorous bush growing up to 1.5 meters, forming thick, straight shoots.

Why 'Chereshnevaya'?

Its main asset is comprehensive resistance. It is resistant to powdery mildew, anthracnose, septoria leaf spot, and the dreaded blackcurrant gall mite. The fruits are large (up to 4.5 g), black and shiny, with a firm skin that does not crack.

Ideal for the Market

The berries have a dry pick, do not drop, and ripen simultaneously (from July 10). This makes it a perfect variety for mechanical harvesting as well as for selling fresh fruit in whole strigs.

2. 'Selechenskaya': Sweet as Dessert

The Russian variety 'Selechenskaya' is the benchmark for taste. Bred at the All-Russian Research Institute of Lupine, it is known for its very large fruits (up to 5 grams!).

Taste Experience

It ripens early (early July). Its taste is distinctly sweet, without the typical currant acidity, for which it received almost absolute ratings in tests. It is an ideal variety for children and fresh consumption.

The Demanding Beauty

However, it demands care for its taste. 'Selechenskaya' requires fertile soil and regular fertilization. If you provide it, it will reward you with huge berries.

3. 'Veloj': Indestructible and Delicious

The variety 'Veloj' (also known as Leningrad Sweet) is the result of crossing, with the Swedish variety 'Öjebyn' as one parent. This gave it extreme resilience.

Why Grow It?

It is a variety with five stars for taste (5/5). The fruits are large, thin-skinned, and ripen mid-late. Unlike previous varieties, it ripens gradually, which is advantageous for home gardens – you have fresh fruit available longer.

Health Status

'Veloj' is highly resistant to drought, frost, powdery mildew, and the blackcurrant gall mite. It is a "maintenance-free" variety for every gardener.

Big Comparison: Which One to Choose?

Feature Chereshnevaya Selechenskaya Veloj
Ripening Mid-late (simultaneous) Early (simultaneous) Mid-late (gradual)
Taste Sour-sweet Dessert sweet Dessert sweet
Resistance High (except drought) Medium High (all)
Requirements Undemanding Requires fertilization Undemanding

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for a variety for jam and freezing ('Chereshnevaya'), want the sweetest currant for children ('Selechenskaya'), or need an indestructible bush for a cooler garden ('Veloj'), these Eastern European novelties are a safe bet. They combine the best of two worlds: the extreme resilience of wild currants and the delicious taste of cultivated varieties.

Expected Sale Date: May/June 2026
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