We present the construction of a partial draft genome for the sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) cultivar ‘Karina’ (2n = 2x = 16), leveraging next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies and a de novo assembly strategy. The assembled genome spans approximately 352.5 Mb and comprises 904,813 contigs, with an N50 of 9,188 bp. Subsequent contig merging yielded 898,488 scaffolds, achieving an N50 of 13,235 bp and a maximum scaffold length of 419,819 bp.

To assess agronomically relevant gene content, we conducted targeted searches for Dormancy-Associated MADS-box (DAM) transcription factors and members of the eIF4G gene subfamily. Six putative DAM genes were identified in a tandem array, showing an average sequence identity of 89.14% with Prunus persica. Similarly, eIF4G homologs exhibited 89.76% identity with P. persica and 60.36% with Arabidopsis thaliana.

This draft genome provides a valuable resource for future genomic studies and enhances our understanding of the genetic architecture of the ‘Karina’ cultivar. It also establishes a foundational tool for advancing functional genomics and molecular breeding in sweet cherry.