'Somo' (R-101) Black Raspberry Released from the 
Missouri State Fruit Experiment Station

Although red raspberries are only native to one county in northwestern Missouri, wild black raspberries are found throughout the state. The State Fruit Experiment Station released one black raspberry from its breeding program.

The name 'Somo' (abbreviation for southern Missouri) was given because its point of origin is here. The berry is an attractive black, average in size, firmness and appearance. Its quality is very good when eaten fresh or after freezing. It is nearly round, clings well to a small torus (the "core"), but releases readily when ripe. The drupelets are nearly round and medium large. They do not crumble in handling. The fruit is early to ripen, ahead of 'Cumberland' and 'Kansas'. The berries reduce in size somewhat as the season advances, due partly to the high production and a long harvest season.

'Somo’s claim to distinction is its vigorous habit of growth. No other black at the Station has equaled its growth, hardiness, production, and resistance to disease. Although a small amount of anthracnose has been found, it has been no problem for twelve years The plants grow tall, stand up well, but root readily at the tips.  Introduced 1956.

Back to Introduction