Currant (Tartan)
Red Currant
$12.99
Out of stock
Tartan is a vigorous red currant variety originally introduced from Slovakia in 1985. Known for its large berries and long fruit clusters, this cultivar is highly valued for both home gardens and fresh market production. The bright red berries are larger than many other red currants, averaging about 10 mm in diameter, and grow in long, elegant clusters that can contain around 25 berries each.
This variety flowers slightly later than Jonkheer van Tets but ripens about three weeks afterward, extending the red currant harvest season when planted together. The plants are vigorous, productive, and self-pollinating, producing reliable crops once established. Mature plants can yield up to 20 pounds of fruit annually under good growing conditions.
Key Features
Large bright red berries averaging about 10 mm in diameter
Long fruit clusters around 10 cm with roughly 25 berries per truss
Heavy annual production with potential yields up to 20 lbs per plant
Mid-to-late ripening extending harvest after early varieties
Excellent for fresh eating, jams, jellies, syrups, and baking
Self-fertile and highly vigorous plants
Plant Details
Mature Height: Up to 6–7 ft
Mature Width: 3–4 ft
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–7
Ripening Season: Mid to late summer
Pollination: Self-fertile
Growing Conditions
Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy loam or clay loam
Soil pH: 5.0–7.0
Row Spacing: ~3 ft between plants
Aisle Spacing: ~9 ft between rows
Mulching: Recommended in sandy soils to retain moisture
Why We Like It
Tartan stands out for its large berries, long clusters, and excellent productivity, making it an outstanding variety for gardeners who want both attractive fruit and dependable harvests. When planted alongside earlier varieties like Jonkheer van Tets, it helps extend the red currant season by several weeks.