Calypso

Parentage/Origin : Calypso was raised from a cross between Rapella and Selva, made in 1985 by Dr David Simpson and Judi Bell. Selected in 1986 for its firm, well-flavoured berries, Calypso (formerly EMR28) was released in the UK in 1991.

Fruit Quality : The berries are firm with a mid-red colour, glossy skin finish and have good flavour. They have a regular, conical shape although some of the primary berries can be irregular at the beginning of the season. The variety benefits from frequent picking as the fruit tends to darken once ripe. /// Yield and Fruit Size : Yields from everbearer trials in the UK vary considerably from year to year but typically Calypso will produce a Class 1 yield similar to Rapella following a spring planting. Trials have shown that Calypso will have a similar yield irrespective of whether planted in spring or autumn. Calypso consistently produced a higher proportion of large berries (>35mm) than Rapella in trials. /// Season : The overall cropping season is similar to Rapella although individual peaks within the season will vary between the two varieties. In some years spring planting may significantly advance the season of Calypso relative to an autumn planting, but yield is not affected.

Plant Characteristics : Plants are moderately vigorous with an upright habit. Runner production is unusually prolific for an everbearing type and the runners must be removed regularly during the summer to prevent the plants from becoming stressed