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Parentage
Eros was delivered from a cross between Elsanta and Allstar, made
in 1985 by Dr David Simpson and Judi Bell. Selected in 1986 due to its
attractive, high quality berry, Eros, formerly EM220, Eros was
released to industry in 1994.
Fruit Quality
The berries are very attractive with a regular, conical shape,
mid-red colour and glossy skin. Firmness is similar to Elsanta and
they benefit from having a pleasant, well-balanced flavour.
Yield and Fruit Size
Generally similar to Elsanta, but more consistent yield and fruit
size. Approximately 50% of Eros class 1 yield is normally greater than
35mm.
Season
A mid season variety, equivalent to Elsanta.
Plant Characteristics
Plants are slightly more vigorous than Elsanta with an erect,
fairly open habit and the fruit is well displayed and easy to pick. A
lower planting density than Elsanta is recommended. Runner production
is good.
Disease Resistance
Eros is resistant to two of the three most common UK races of red
core (Phytophthora fragariae). The firm berries and open habit result
in few losses to grey mould (Botrytis cinerea) provided planting is at
the correct density. Eros is moderately susceptible to powdery mildew
(Sphaerotheca macularis) and wilt (Verticillium dahliae).
Marketing
Eros is a dessert type that will produce approximately 85% of its
total yield in the supermarket quality category. There is
significantly less waste than with Elsanta due to fewer misshapes.
With an improved proportion of fruit above 35 mm Eros will reduce
harvesting costs. Eros produces fruit of very similar quality and
appearance to Elsanta and would thus be aimed at the same dessert
market. The slightly larger size and smaller proportion of misshapes
may mean it will be preferred to Elsanta in some situations.
Accreditations
The breeding of this variety was jointly
funded by the
Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra),
MEIOSIS Ltd. and the East Malling Trust for Horticultural Research.
The trialling of this variety was funded by MEIOSIS Ltd
and the Horticultural Development Council
(HDC).
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