Kristin trees are large, vigorous, and heavy cropping. Growers and researchers alike are especially impressed with how winter hardy Kristin is, with it performing well in New York, Montana, and Norway. Kristin blooms early-to-mid season. It is not self-fruitful and will need another cherry variety to cross pollinate. We recommend universal pollinators such as WhiteGold®, EbonyPearl®, and Stardust™. Other options include Hartland, or Summit. (This variety is genetically incompatible with any tree in pollen group III, which includes: Napoleon, Cavalier®, Somerset, Ulster, Royal Anne, Emperor Francis, Lambert, BurgundyPearl®, and Bing.)

Kristin produces large, glossy, aromatic sweet cherries that are about 1" in diameter. The skin is a purplish black with firm, red flesh that is juicy and sweet. While fruit may be too dark for brining, its good quality makes it wonderful for fresh eating and processing. A popular choice for roadside stands and U-pick farms. It ripens early-to-mid season in Geneva, NY (about 2 days after Bing) and is moderately resistant to cracking. 

Kristin originated in Geneva, NY as a cross between Emperor Francis and Gil Peck. While the cross was made in 1938, it wasn’t until 1982 that it was officially introduced by the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, Cornell University.