What are the different varieties of cherries?
Rainier Cherry
Rainier cherries were introduced from the U.S. and are also a hybrid variety, resulting from a cross between Bing and Van cherries. They stand out for their yellow skin, which is quite different from typical cherries. They mature later but have excellent storage capabilities and are less likely to crack.
Daihong Cherry
Daihong cherries are a common type of small cherry. They are characterized by their later maturity and smaller fruit size, typically around 14 grams for the smallest cherries. This variety is mainly grown in the Yantai region of Shandong and usually ripens around May, making it one of the most widely cultivated cherry varieties.
Chihong Cherry
Chihong cherries are another well-known variety, originally introduced from Italy and improved in China. These cherries have a heart-shaped appearance and are slightly larger than Daihong cherries. They have a rich, sweet-tart flavor and are less prone to splitting.
Hongdeng Cherry
Hongdeng cherries are a hybrid variety created by crossing two excellent cherry types: Nanjing and Huangyu. They are currently the most widely planted cherry variety, offering a balanced sweet-tart flavor. They store well but may have slight cracking on the skin.