Planasa Added Three Blackberry Varieties to Breeding Portfolio
The company has expanded its berry development program with new thornless blackberry cultivars.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Botany
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Planasa has introduced three new blackberry varieties to its global breeding portfolio. The expansion aims to address specific requirements from growers, retailers, and consumers.
Why it matters
Developing new plant varieties helps agricultural firms improve yield, fruit quality, and shelf life to meet diverse market demands. These advancements are essential for optimizing production across varying international growing conditions.
The company developed the thornless varieties Black Rainier and Black Iguazú, alongside Black Yosemite, which is specifically designed for growing conditions in Mexico.
The players
Planasa
Planasa is an international company specializing in the breeding and nursery production of berries and other crops.
International Taste Institute
The International Taste Institute is an organization that evaluates and awards products for superior taste and quality.
IFSI
IFSI is a U.S.-based company recently acquired by Planasa to expand its agricultural operations.
The details
Breeding programs at Planasa prioritize traits such as flavor, firmness, shelf life, and ease of harvesting. The firm also continues to evaluate advanced strawberry selections in northern Spain and recently acquired the U.S.-based company IFSI.
Timeline
RedSayra was the most widely planted strawberry variety in Spain during 2025.
Pink Loira was introduced in 2025.
Planasa will present its latest developments in the future at Fruit Attraction.
The Big Picture
Several Planasa fruit varieties have been validated by the industry through the International Taste Institute Superior Taste Award. This recognition demonstrates how breeding programs are increasingly focused on meeting consumer flavor preferences to maintain market competitiveness.
These breeding efforts could lead to more durable and flavorful berries reaching grocery store shelves. Improved cultivars like Black Yosemite may stabilize supply chains for specific regional growing environments.
The takeaway
Agricultural breeding programs are essential for balancing the needs of industrial growers with the quality expectations of consumers. Advances in thornless blackberry technology reflect a broader industry trend toward maximizing harvest efficiency.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in plant genetics in our Botany section.
More information
For more details on the company's breeding program, visit the Planasa company website.
Live Poll
Do you believe current fruit breeding techniques result in better quality produce for your household?
