Lapins Cherry is perhaps second only to Gold in terms of cold hardiness. While many sources don't list it among the hardiest sweet cherries, we’ve updated our assessment based on years of experience and observations from growers in extreme conditions. After seeing one of our growers in Cowley, Wyoming, report no damage to his Lapins trees after experiencing temperatures as low as -33°F, and noting the performance of mature trees in the Bitterroot Valley, we consider Lapins to be hardy to Zone 3b.

Cold Hardiness and Exceptional Performance

We previously ranked Gold, White Gold, and Black Gold as the hardiest sweet cherries, but after firsthand experience, we’ve found that Lapins has performed better than Black Gold in extreme cold. We've observed mature Lapins trees in the Bitterroot (one in Lolo, over 20 years old, and two others in Stevensville, over 30 years old) that have survived temperatures below -30°F, possibly even colder. This makes Lapins an excellent choice for cold climates, where other varieties might be at risk.

The Flathead Cherry Legacy

Lapins is considered one of the main cherries grown in the Flathead region of northwest Montana, especially around beautiful Flathead Lake. Developed in British Columbia as a cross between Van and Stella, Lapins has become a staple in the region. After the devastating winter of 1988-1989, Flathead cherry growers wisely replanted Bing cherries with Lapins, and the variety has thrived ever since.

Fruit Characteristics and Improvements

Lapins produces a dark, sweet cherry that is often compared to Bing, but with several notable improvements. The cherries are firmer and more resistant to splitting, making them easier to handle and less prone to damage during harvest or bad weather.

Pollination and Yield

While Lapins is partially self-fertile due to its Stella parentage, it will benefit from cross-pollination with another cherry variety. For optimal results, plant Lapins with another compatible pollenizer such as Rainier, Van, Gold, White Gold, Black Gold, or Stella.

Rootstock and Cold Tolerance

These Lapins trees are grafted onto Gisela 12 rootstock, which we find to be a reliable and hardy rootstock, comparable in cold tolerance to Mahaleb. This ensures strong growth and durability in cold climates.

Lapins is hardy to Zone 3b, withstanding temperatures as low as those recorded in the Bitterroot Valley. This makes it an excellent choice for growers in colder regions.