Name Change Reveals True Colors of Unique Table Grape Variety
September 20, 2018 ‘Compassion’ is a new seedless, white table grape from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. It combines the crisp, thin-skinned texture of California table grapes with the rich, fruity flavor of eastern table grapes.
The grape was originally released in 2017 under the name ‘Passion.’ The name was changed to avoid confusion with a fruit variety released under the same name from another institution.
‘Compassion’ joins the lineup of inspiration-themed table grapes developed by the Division of Agriculture’s fruit breeding program, which includes ‘Faith’ and ‘Joy‘ and white grapes ’Hope‘ and ’Gratitude.’
“Crisp texture is one of the most outstanding attributes of ‘Compassion,’” John Clark, Distinguished Professor of Horticulture an Director of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture fruit breeding program said.
On a flavor scale used to evaluate selections, Clark said ‘Compassion’ is comparable to ‘Jupiter’ and rates higher than other Arkansas grapes.
Clark says ‘Compassion’ ripens about two weeks later than ‘Jupiter’ and around the same time as ‘Hope.’
The medium-sized berries are elongated oval and the color is green at maturity. Clusters weigh from a half a pound to about a pound. The clusters are well-filled to tight, which may contribute to fruit rot when berries are closely spaced.
Clark says ‘Compassion’ grapes produced fruit that did not crack with occasional rain shower.
Bud break is 10 days later than ‘Jupiter.’
’Compassion‘ will be available from licensed propagators of Division of Agriculture fruit varieties. A list of licensed propagators can be found online: https://www.uaex.edu/farm-ranch/crops-commercial-horticulture/horticulture/commercial-fruit-production/
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