Botanical profile

Rubus idaeus 'Polka'

Latin name
Rubus idaeus 'Polka'
Common name
Everbearing raspberry 'Polka'
Type
Fruit shrub
Family
Rosaceae

Rubus idaeus ‘Polka’, an everbearing raspberry known for its exceptional productivity, is a must-have for northern vegetable gardens. This upright, bushy raspberry produces large, bright red, firm, sweet, and slightly tart fruits, perfect for fresh consumption, processing, or freezing. Highly valued for its abundant harvest from late summer until the first frosts, it fruits on current year's canes, simplifying pruning. Its bright green foliage highlights its vibrant fruits while attracting pollinators to the garden. Ideal for rows, edible mass plantings, or large container cultivation, Rubus idaeus ‘Polka’ combines hardiness, yield, and ease of maintenance for gardeners seeking a reliable and flavorful variety.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 4
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Regular watering
Fertilization
Spring berry fertilizer. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke when planting.
Soil type
Slightly acidic to neutral, rich, loose and well-drained
Minimum temperature
'-34°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Summer
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Large, bright red fruits, firm, sweet and slightly tart
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Fruit shrub
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
1.5 to 2 m (5 to 7 feet)
Width
1.2 m (4 feet)
Growth rate
fast
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Everbearing raspberry plant
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.