Big Red produces large, bright to dark red sour cherries averaging 7 grams, nearly twice the size of Cutie Pie. Their distinctive, slightly elongated shape offers a superior flesh-to-pit ratio. These cherries reach peak ripeness in mid-August. Released by the University of Saskatchewan, Dr. Bob Bors classifies Big Red as “highly experimental,” it has shown impressive hardiness and no winterkill in trials. Productivity can be somewhat lower than other cultivars, but that may be the trade-off that gives it such resilience in tough conditions. Due to its elongated pit, Big Red isn’t suited for commercial mechanical harvest, so it remains a home-gardener’s variety, sold as Wowza® in the United States. For those designing food forests, permaculture plantings, or cold-climate orchards, Big Red adds both reliability and a touch of visual interest. Read our Sour Cherry Guide here. Hardiness Zone: 2 Height: 1.5–2.5 meter (6–8 ft) Spread: 2 meter (6 ft) Soil Preference: Well-drained Light Exposure: Full sun Pollination: Self-fertile Latin Name: Prunus cerasus ‘Big Red’
