New sweet cherry cultivars developed at the University of Bologna

The University of Bologna established a sweet cherry breeding program in the early 1980s and released its first cultivars in the late 1990s. The 'Star' sweet cherry series began with 'Early Star (R) Panaro 2', 'Blaze Star' and 'Lala Star', released in 1997. Three additional selections are now proposed for release as new cultivars: 'Sweet Early (R) Panaro 1', 'Grace Star', and 'Black Star'. 'Sweet Early 0 Panaro 1' (DCA Bo 84.706.004) ripens very early (several days before 'Burlat'), with large, very sweet fruits having a semi-firm flesh and low acidity. 'Grace Star' (DCA Bo 84.703.003) ripens medium early (right after 'Celeste') and is interesting for its precocity, high yields and attractive, good-size fruits. 'Black Star' (DCA Bo 85.723.002) ripens mid-season (a few days before 'Van') and is marked by very good precocity, consistently high productivity, and large, firm, flavorful fruits that are resistant to rain-induced cracking. All 6 of the cultivars released thus far are self-fertile.