Nimba cherry is a modern early commercial cherry variety. Variety creator: SMS Unlimited, California (USA). Variety synonym: SMS-290. License holder: COT International (France)
The variety was created for the premium early market segment, combining large fruits, stable quality, and high commercial appeal during a period of minimal competition.
Ripening and positioning in the season
Nimba fruits ripen during the period:
May 26 – June 2
This variety occupies a unique place between the ultra-early SMS-280 variety and the early and mid-early varieties — Kossara, Early Star, Sweet Ariana, Red Pacific, Folfer, Frisco — and organically complements the cherry sales conveyor belt during the period of premium prices and virtually no competition on the market.
Tree characteristics and growth potential
The tree is tall, with a semi-spreading crown.
It is characterized by active growth, good foliage, and high adaptability to training.
The variety is suitable for:
• intensive and semi-intensive orchards
• vertical leader training
• stable commercial cultivation
Flowering and pollination system
Early flowering.
Genetics (S-locus)
S-genotype: S2 – S3
The variety is self-infertile and requires the presence of compatible pollinator varieties.
Best pollinator varieties
• Red Pacific — S4’ – S9
• Folfer — S6 – S9
• Early Star — S4’ – S9
• Frisco — S1 – S4
This combination ensures reliable cross-pollination and stable fruit set.
Characteristics of fruits and commercial qualities
The fruits are large and consistent in size.
• Diameter: about 30 mm
• Shape: heart-shaped, elongated
• Color: dark red with a pronounced metallic sheen
• Fruit stalk: medium length, strong, holds the fruit well
Flesh, taste, and firmness
The flesh is dense, cartilaginous, and juicy.
The taste is sweet, dessert-like.
• Sugar content: 16° Brix
• Hardness: 70 Durofel units
The fruits tolerate transportation well and retain their marketable appearance during sale.
Resistance to cracking and weather factors
Field resistance to fruit cracking during rainy periods is about 70%, which is high for the early segment.
This minimizes the risk of crop losses and preserves the premium quality of the fruit during the sales period.
Yield and production stability
The Nimba variety produces stable yields and ensures a consistent commercial harvest in industrial plantations.
Purpose of the variety
Nimba cherries are recommended for:
• industrial cultivation
• intensive early-season orchards
• forming a continuous variety conveyor
• sale in fresh form at a premium price
The main advantages of the Nimba variety
• Early ripening (May 26 – June 2)
• Large fruits 30 mm with a metallic sheen
• Brix 16°, Durofel 70
• Field resistance to cracking ~70%
• Premium selling price
• Minimal competition on the market