British Breakthrough: Hutton Institute Launches First Homegrown Blueberry
- Sarah-Jayne Gratton
- Jul 25
- 2 min read
The James Hutton Institute has unveiled Highland Charm, the UK’s first-ever blueberry cultivar, bred specifically for Scottish growing conditions after a decade of research and more than 300 unique crosses.
Developed at the Institute’s Invergowrie site, Highland Charm is a milestone for both the British berry sector and Scotland’s thriving fruit-growing reputation.
Blueberry breeder Susan McCallum led the programme and said the new variety is a genuine breakthrough in fruit breeding: “This cultivar is a real standout. It combines high yields, excellent fruit size, outstanding flavour, with a balanced sugar-acid profile and a satisfying bite, and an impressive shelf life.”
Highland Charm was developed from native North American species (Vaccinium corymbosum), and has proven itself across multiple years of trials in both the UK and the EU. It consistently performs well under varying seasonal conditions, making it an appealing option for commercial growers.
“It is reliable and has performed well in our trials year after year, with consistent yield, size and taste. Growers are really excited about it,” said Dr McCallum.
The new cultivar is currently undergoing the licensing process to be recognised as a novel and unique variety, with supermarket availability expected within the next two to three years. A sister variety is also under development and may enter licensing next year.
The Hutton Institute’s breeding programme is internationally recognised for its contribution to soft fruit genetics. Using marker-assisted breeding, the team works closely with stakeholders across the fruit supply chain helping to speed up the development of cultivars that meet the evolving needs of the industry.
That includes breeding for pest and disease resistance, climate adaptability, and performance in reduced-input systems, all of which align with agricultural goals for greater sustainability and cost-efficiency.
Scotland’s unique conditions give Highland Charm a head start. Milder summers and longer ripening times help build sugars and acids more gradually, leading to richer, more complex flavours.
UK consumers currently eat around 60,000 tonnes of blueberries a year, yet 90% are imported. Researchers at the Hutton believe Highland Charm is poised to shift that balance by giving the industry a homegrown alternative with true market potential.
Dr McCallum is hopeful the variety will also support a consumer shift towards seasonal, local produce:
“They are fresher with higher health benefits than imported berries that take six weeks to get from the field to the shelves.
“Imported fruit is often picked slightly too early and while its colour continues to develop, its flavour does not. I guarantee people will taste the difference with in-season, local fruit and will want to go back for more.”