Ripening time: mid-December
 
A productive tree bearing dark-red, medium sized, heart shaped fruit from mid-December. 
Fruits at a similar time as Bing. 
 
The flavour is also similar to Bing, but with a slightly tarter flavour. The best flavour comes when picked after they reach a mahogany colour. Very juicy and has a firm flesh. 
 
The main advantages for this variety are their resistance to cracking and the later flowering period which avoids early frosts. Sam is also a very useful pollinator for trees that are considered difficult to pollinate and is an excellent pollinator for Kordia. 
 
Growth is very upright when young, spreading with age. 
 
Sam is self-sterile and requires a suitable pollination partner
Pollination Partners: Kordia, Stella, Van, Bing, Napoleon
 
Flowering group 4; Pollination Group 8 (S2S4) – making it a useful pollinator for Kordia
 
Mature tree height: 3.5 – 5.5 m depending on shape
 
Tree Care: 
For best results plant in full sun in fertile, free draining soil, preferably a friable loam with good aeration.
 
If the soil is free draining, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball, plant the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil line and back fill with a soil and compost mixture. If the soil is not free draining, plant the tree in a raised mound of soil and compost mix, to prevent water logging.
 
Water in well at planting, and water regularly, especially in dry spells.
 
Cherries are shallow rooted and young trees will benefit from being mulched. Apply mulch in a ring around the tree base, keeping clear of the trunk.