Vegetative and productive characteristics of raspberries grown in a subtropical climate

The objective of this study was to evaluate the vegetative and productive characteristics of raspberry plants, as well as the bioactive compounds and cytotoxic potential of fruits from the “Heritage”, “Autumn Bliss”, and “Fallgold” cultivars. The experiment used a strip plot design with eight replicates per cultivar treatment (“Heritage”, “Fallgold”, and “Autumn Bliss”). Vegetative and productive traits were assessed, along with the fruits’ phytochemical characteristics. Cell viability and oxidative parameters were also determined using raspberry extracts. All cultivars adapted to the climatic conditions of Western SC; however, “Fallgold” showed the lowest productive potential. Regarding fruit composition, “Autumn Bliss” and “Fallgold” presented the highest total sugars and soluble solids, while “Heritage” showed higher vitamin C and phenolic compounds. Overall, the local climate supports raspberry cultivation: “Autumn Bliss” and “Fallgold” have greater potential for fresh consumption, whereas “Heritage” offers higher antioxidant potential.