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Malus domestica - Borkh.

Apple

Author	Borkh.	Botanical references	11, 200
Family	Rosaceae	Genus	Malus
Synonyms	Malus sylvestris domestica - (Borkh.)Mansf. Pyrus malus - L.
Known Hazards	All members of this genus contain the toxin hydrogen cyanide in their seeds and possibly also in their leaves, but not in their fruits. Hydrogen cyanide is the substance that gives almonds their characteristic taste but it should only be consumed in very small quantities. Apple seeds do not normally contain very high quantities of hydrogen cyanide but, even so, should not be consumed in very large quantities. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.
Range	A hybrid of garden origin, mainly involving M. sylvestris and M. pumila[200]..
Habitat	Not known in a truly wild situation.
Edibility Rating	5 (1-5)	Medicinal Rating	2 (1-5)

Physical Characteristics

A decidious Tree growing to 9m.

The plant prefers light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, requires well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires moist soil.

Habitats

Woodland Garden; Secondary; Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; North Wall By; East Wall By; South Wall By; West Wall By;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit.

Edible Uses: Oil; Pectin.

Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use. Apples are one of the most common and widely grown fruits of the temperate zone. There are a great many named varieties with differing flavours ranging from sour to sweet and textures from dry and mealy to crisp and juicy. There is also a wide range in the seasons of ripening with the first fruits being ready in late July whilst other cultivars are not picked until late autumn and will store for 12 months or sometimes more. See individual records for more details. The fruit of some cultivars is rich in pectin and can be used in helping other fruits to set when making jam etc[61, 142]. Pectin is also said to protect the body against radiation[201]. An edible oil can be obtained from the seed[4]. It would only really be viable to use these seeds as an oil source if the fruit was being used for some purpose such as making cider and then the seeds could be extracted from the remaining pulp[K].

Medicinal Uses

Antibacterial; Astringent; Laxative; Odontalgic; Stomachic.

The fruit is astringent and laxative[4, 9]. The bark, and especially the root bark, is anthelmintic, refrigerant and soporific[218, 240]. An infusion is used in the treatment of intermittent, remittent and bilious fevers[4, 240]. The leaves contain up to 2.4% of an antibacterial substance called 'phloretin'[240]. This inhibits the growth of a number of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in as low a concentration as 30 ppm[240]. A ripe raw apple is one of the easiest foods for the stomach to deal with, the whole process of digestion taking about 85 minutes[4]. The apple juice will reduce the acidity of the stomach, it becomes changed into alkaline carbonates and thus corrects sour fermentation[4]. The apple is also an excellent dentifrice, the mechanical action of eating a fruit serving to clean both the teeth and the gums[4].

Other Uses

Lighting; Oil; Teeth; Wood.

The fruit is a source of pectin[61, 142]. Pectin is used as a thickener in jams etc and as a culture medium in laboratories. The apple is also an excellent dentifrice, the mechanical action of eating a fruit serving to clean both the teeth and the gums[4, 269]. The oil from the seed has been used as an illuminant[269]. Wood - hard, compact, fine-grained. Used for turnery, tool handles, canes etc[46, 171, 226]. It makes an excellent fuel[226].

Cultivation details

An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most fertile soils, preferring a moisture retentive well-drained loamy soil[1, 200]. Grows well in heavy clay soils, though if these are poorly drained there could be problems with diseases such as canker[200]. Prefers a sunny position but succeeds in partial shade though it fruits less well in such a situation[1, 200]. Tolerates a pH range from 6 to 7, preferring a range of 6.5 to 6.8[200]. The apple is one of the most commonly cultivated fruit crops in the temperate zone. The primary climatic requirements for the production of good quality fruit are warm summer temperatures, relative freedom from spring frosts, reasonable protection from the wind (especially cold north and east winds) and an evenly distributed rainfall of about 600 - 800mm per annum[200]. Good apple production has been achieved as far north as 65�, whilst about 1000 hours of winter temperatures below 7�c are necessary to initiate flower production[269]. However good quality apples can still be produced in other areas with careful management and choice of cultivars[200]. Even in tropical latitudes, the plant has succeeded at high elevations, producing fruit at elevations over 3000 metres in Ecuador for example[269]. Where space is at a premium, or at the limits of their climatic range, apples can be grown against a wall. Most cultivars will grow well against a sunny south or west facing wall, an east facing wall will suit many of the tougher cultivars and even a north facing wall can be used for early culinary cultivars[219]. A hybrid of mixed origins, including M. dasyphylla, M. praecox, M. pumila, M. sieversii and M. sylvestris, this species is very commonly cultivated in temperate areas for its edible fruit[11]. There are very many named varieties[46, 183, 200] and with careful choice of these varieties it is possible to provide freshly harvested fruit from July to December and stored fruit for the rest of the year. When chives (Allium schoenoprasum) or other alliums are grown under apple trees it can prevent or cure scab[18]. A spray of the infused leaves of Equisetum spp can also be used against scab[18, 201]. If climbing nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are grown into the tree they can repel woolly aphis[18, 201]. Apples lose their flavour if they are stored with potatoes[18]. They will also impart a bitter flavour to carrots or potatoes if they are stored in the same area[201]. Growing apples near potatoes makes the potatoes more susceptible to blight[201]. Wrapping maple leaves (Acer spp) around apples in store helps to preserve the apples[18, 20]. Apples store better if they are grown in a sward that contains a high percentage of clover[201]. Apple trees grow better and produce better quality fruit when foxgloves (Digitalis spp) and wallflowers (Erysimum cheiri) are growing in the orchard[201]. Dandelions (Taraxacum spp) produce ethylene gas and this can cause earlier ripening of fruit if plants are growing in an orchard[18]. The fruit is a good wildlife food source, especially for birds[200]. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus[200]. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].

Propagation

Seed - this species is a hybrid and will not breed true from seed, though some interesting new fruiting cultivars can be produced.. It is best sown as soon as it is ripe in the autumn in a cold frame. It usually germinates in late winter. Stored seed requires stratification for 3 months at 1�c and should be sown in a cold frame as soon as it is received[200]. It might not germinate for 12 months or more. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle. If given a rich compost they usually grow away quickly and can be large enough to plant out in late summer, though consider giving them some protection from the cold in their first winter. Otherwise, keep them in pots in a cold frame and plant them out in late spring of the following year. Cuttings of mature wood, November in a frame[11].

Cultivars

'Adams Pearmain'

A medium-size fruit with creamy white flesh that is crisp, juicy and aromatic[1, 38, 39]. Of excellent quality, it is in season from November to March[183]. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible[40]. The tree is moderately vigorous, wide-spreading, partially tip-bearing and tends towards biennial bearing[40, 183]. A very hardy tree, suitable for cold exposed situations[38]. It thrives in all soils[38, 39]. Full flower day 12. Self-compatible.

'Alfriston'

A cooking apple, the flesh is soft, sub-acid[38] with a pear like flavour[40] and is very juicy[37]. In season from November to April. A moderate-sized tree, it is vigorous, disease resistant and a good cropper[37, 38, 40]. Full flower day 13.

'Allen's Everlasting'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, sweet, subacid with an excellent flavour[1, 38]. The skin is thin and tough[38]. In season from December to May. A small upright tree, it is a fairly good cropper[38, 40]. Full flower day 14. Harvest as late in the season as possible.

'Annie Elizabeth'

A cooking apple, the flesh is soft white and acid[38]. A compact tree of upright growth, it makes a good standard[38, 39, 40]. It grows well in the north of Britain and quickly comes into bearing[39]. It resists scab, but is subject to mildew[1]. Full flower day 20, the fruit is best harvested at the end of November, though the fruit is inclined to drop before this[1]. It is self-compatible.

'Ard Cairn Russet'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, dry and sweet[38, 40]. A moderately sized tree with vigorous upright growth[38, 40]. It crops well[38]. Resists scab[38, 40]. Full flower day 15. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Arthur Turner'

A cooking apple with a large fruit and a rather dry pleasantly acid flesh[183]. It ripens early and also hangs well on the tree and stores well[183]. In season from July to November. An upright tree of moderate to vigorous growth[183]. It crops regularly and heavily[183]. Fairly resistant to scab[38, 41200], it grows well in cold areas[38]. Very ornamental when in flower. Prune the laterals to 3 or 4 buds[38]. Full flower day 11. Harvest the fruit as required for immediate use[38, 39].

'Ashmead's Kernel'

A medium-sized dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, juicy, highly aromatic and subacid[37, 38, 183]. Of excellent quality and flavour[38, 41], it is in season from November to May. A moderately vigorous large upright-spreading tree, it crops irregularly[38, 40, 183]. The laterals should be shortened to 3 or 4 buds[38]. Full flower day 18. Harvest the fruit in October or later.

'Baker's Delicious'

A dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, sweet and aromatic[1, 38]. In season August and September. A compact tree of vigorous growth, it is easily managed and crops fairly well even on young trees[38, 40]. Disease resistant[38, 40, 41]. Full flower day 10. Harvest the fruit as required, if picked in early September it will store for 3 weeks38].

'Barnack Beauty'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is crisp, juicy, subacid to sweet with a fair flavour[38]. In season from December to March. A hardy vigorous tree, the branches are thin and spreading[38]. It grows and crops well on a dry chalky soil[38, 39], though it does not do so well when not on chalk[39]. A tip bearer[38]. Full flower day 18, it should be harvested in November.

'Belle de Boskoop

A medium to large dual-purpose apple, the flesh is aromatic, firm coarse and rather dry[38, 183]. Good for dessert, it is excellent cooked and is in season from December to April[183]. A vigorous upright spreading tree, it is spur-bearing[183] and slow to come into cropping,[38, 39] but is then productive[40, 183]. It resists scab and canker[40, 41] and grows well in grass[40]. A triploid, so it needs two other cultivats for pollination[38]. Full flower day 11, the fruit should be harvested in mid October.

'Bess Pool'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is firm, dry, sweet and aromatic[37, 38]. In season from November to May. A hardy and vigorous tree with upright growth[38, 40], it makes a good standard[38]. Cropping is light at first but the tree then becomes more productive[38], though cropping remains irregular[1]. Full flower day 25.

'Blenheim Orange'

A medium to large dual purpose apple, the flesh is firm but tender, crisp, sub-acid with a distinctive nutty flavour[38, 183]. It is sometimes dry[183]. An apple for the connoisseur[39]. A huge vigorous spreading tree[39], it is slow to come into bearing[183], though it can then crop quite well[38, 41]. It prefers a grass orchard[38]. Dislikes areas with high rainfall and is susceptible to scab[38]. Resists mildew[1]. The flowers are susceptible to frost damage[38, 39]. Prune laterals to 5 or 6 buds[38]. This cultivar breeds fairly true from seed. Full flower day 14. The plant is a triploid so needs two other cultivars to fertilize it. Harvest the fruit in mid October.

'Braddick's Nonpareil'

A dessert apple, it is sweet, juicy, rich and aromatic[40]. In season from January to April. A very small tree, it is apt to overcrop[37, 40]. Full flower very early. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Bramley Seedling'

A large-fruited cooking apple that stores well and can be used for desert in the spring when its taste has mellowed[K]. The flesh is firm, juicy and acid at first[38], but becomes much less acid, drier and mealy with storage[K]. In season from October to May. A very large and vigorous tree that is slow to come into bearing but then crops heavily[38, 39, 183] but is inclined to be biennial[38]. One report says that it resists scab[38], whilst another says that it is susceptible to scab[40]. The blossom is very susceptible to frost damage[38, 39]. A tip bearer[38]. Full flower day 15. The plant is triploid and will need at least two other cultivars growing nearby for pollination. Harvest it in October.

'Brownlee's Russet'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is tender, subacid and aromatic[38, 39]. In season from January to April. An upright compact tree, it is very hardy, succeeding in cold poorly drained soils[38, 39]. It is virtually disease free[39]. Cropping is irregular according to one report[38], whilst others say that it crops prolifically[40, 41]. Full flower day 12, harvest the fruit in mid October or later.

'Cellini'

A medium-size cooking apple. The flesh is tender, sub-acid with an unusual resinous flavour that is liked by some[1, 38, 183]. In season from October to November[183]. A stocky[38] slightly spreading tree[1], it is very productive[38, 183]. Full flower day 16.

'Charles Ross'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is tender, juicy, fairly sweet with a pleasant flavour[38]. In season from the end of September to November, it does not store well, becoming dry with age[39, 40, 41]. A compact tree[38], it is upright with spreading branches[1, 38]. Succeeds on shallow soils over chalk[38, 39, 40] and also in the north[38]. Cropping is good and regular[38]. Resists scab[38, 41], but is susceptible to capsid bug[38]. Full flower day 15, harvest the fruit from September to mid October.

'Christmas Pearmain'

A dessert apple, the flesh is crisp and juicy[39]. Not in the first rank for flavour, it is sometimes astringent[39]. In season from November to February. A neat upright compact tree, it is very hardy and succeeds in cold clay soils as well as in exposed positions[39]. It crops heavily[39, 40], but is inclined to biennial bearing[1]. a disease-free tree. Full flower early. Harvest the fruit in November.

'Claygate Pearmain'

A medium-large dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, juicy and aromatic with a rich almost nutty flavour[37, 38, 39, 183]. In season from December to March[183]. A small compact tree, suitable for small gardens[38, 39, 40], it is vigorous and upright-spreading, coming into bearing very young and then cropping abundantly[37, 38, 40, 183]. Grows well in the West Country[41]. Resists scab[40]. Full flower day 15, the fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible, even when covered in frost in December[39].

'Cockle Pippin'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, sweet to subacid and aromatic[38, 39]. A first class flavour[40]. In season December to May. A small tree of weak growth[38, 40], it has upright thin shoots[1]. It prefers a heavy loam[39] and grows best in the warmer parts of the country[1]. A heavy cropping tree[37, 38, 40]. Resists scab[38, 40]. Full flower day 15. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Cornish Aromatic'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is aromatic crisp, tender and dry with a delicious nut-like flavour[1, 38, 40]. In season October to March. A compact twiggy tree[38, 39]. Suitable for areas with high rainfall[38, 40, 41]. Resists scab and canker[38]. It is not a heavy cropper, but is reliable[39, 40, 41]. Full flower day 18. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Cornish Gillyflower'

A medium-large dessert apple, the flesh is very firm and juicy with a clove-like perfume, the flavour is sweet and rich. Of excellent quality, it is in season from December to May[183]. A moderately vigorous very spreading tree[39] with slender growth[38]. Best grown as a full standard or free-growing bush[38]. A tip-bearer[38, 41, 183], it crops lightly to moderately[38, 39]. Only suitable for the warmer areas of Britain[38], doing best in warm wet climates like Cornwall[41]. Full flower day 15. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Cornish Pine'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is soft, coarse, sweet, slightly subacid and aromatic[38, 40, 41]. In season December to March. A moderately sized tree with vigorous growth, cropping is usally good[38, 40]. Full flower day 15. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Court Pendu Plat'

A medium-sized dessert apple, the flesh is very firm, fairly juicy, aromatic with a rich flavour and a good balance of acid and sugar[37, 38, 183]. In season from December to May. A small, weak-growing tree[38, 40, 183], it is upright-spreading and productive[183]. Very hardy, it is suitable for heavy clay soils and succeeds in N. Britain[38, 40, 41]. It requires a sunny position[37]. Resists scab[38, 40]. Full flower day 27. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Crawley Beauty'

A medium to large dual purpose apple with a firm, not very juicy flesh[183]. It becomes soft and sweet in the spring[39]. Tart with a fairly good flavour for dessert, it improves with cooking[183]. Available from November to April. A vigorous but upright compact tree, it succeeds in all soils and in all areas[38], growing well in the north[41]. Resists most diseases[38, 39, 183] and is free from scab[40, 41] Cropping is heavy and consistent[1, 38]. It flowers very late, later than almost any other apple cultivar[183]. Full flower day 32. Self-compatible. Harvest the fruit in mid November.

'Devonshire Quarrendon'

A small to medium fruit with a crisp firm very juicy flesh and a distinctive vinous flavour[38, 183]. In season during August and September[183]. The tree is moderately vigorous, upright but becoming spreading with age[1, 38, 40]. A very hardy tree[37], it prefers growing in a grass orchard[38]. Susceptible to scab[38, 39, 41], otherwise it thrives in the West Country[38]. Bears abundantly according to one report[37], but according to others it only crops well in favourable conditions[[1, 38]. Full flower day 10. Harvest the fruit as required for immediate use.

'Discovery'

A medium small dessert apple with a firm, crisp, juicy, sweet flesh that is fine textured and well flavoured for a summer apple[38, 183]. In season August to September. A moderately vigorous upright spreading tree[38, 40, 183]. It is slow to begin cropping but is then very productive[38, 183]. Trees are inclined to be tip-bearing[38]. Flowers are resistant to frost[38, 41]. Resists scab[40, 41]. A very old English variety[183]. Full flower day 14. Harvest the fruit as it is required for use.

'Duke of Devonshire'

A dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, slightly subacid with a good flavour[1, 38, 40]. In season January to April. A moderate sized tree[40, 41], it is vigorous, upright and hardy[38, 40]. The cropping is good and reliable[38, 40]. Very scab-resistant[41]. Full flower day 14. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Easter Orange'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, sweet and aromatic. In season December to March. A very vigorous large tree[38, 40], with a neat habit[39]. It crops well[38]. Resists scab[38, 40]. Full flower day 15. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Edward V11

A medium to large dual purpose apple, the flesh is very firm but tender, rather coarse, juicy and acid[38, 183], cooking to a puree[183]. It becomes mellow in the spring with a rich sweet flavour[39]. In season from December to July. A moderate sized strong growing upright tree[38, 40, 41], it does well in the north of Britain[41]. Moderately productive, but it is slow to come into bearing[38, 183]. Resists scab[38], but is prone to mildew[1] and susceptible to capsid bugs[38]. Full flower very late. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Elton Beauty'

A dessert apple, the flesh is soft, aromatic, subacid[39]. It is the best flavoured of the early yielding cultivars[39]. In season from the end of August until December. Full flower mid season. Harvest the fruit as required for immediate use and then at the end of September for storage.

'Encore'

A cooking apple, the flesh is somewhat acid with a fair[1] to good[41] flavour. In season November to June. A vigorous upright tree, it is a good cropper[41]. Full flower mid season. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Fortune'

A medium size dessert apple, the flesh is firm but tender, rather coarse-texture, sweet with a rich flavour[38, 40, 41, 183]. There is a slight flavour of banana[1]. Of good quality, it is in season in September and October. A small compact tree, it comes into bearing when young and crops heavily but is inclined to be biennial[38, 40, 183]. The flowers resist frost damage[41]. Resists scab[40, 41]. Full flower day 12. Harvest the fruit in September.

'French Crab'

A medium size cooking apple with a very firm crisp acid very astringent flesh that is good cooked[38, 183]. The fruit can be stored for up to 2 years[37, 183]. A vigorous hardy and productive tree[37, 38, 183]. Full flower day 17. Harvest the fruit in October or November.

'Gala'

A medium size dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, very sweet and juicy. A very good quality dessert apple[38, 183]. In season from October to March. A moderately vigorous upright and spreading tree[38, 40], it comes into bearing when very young and crops heavily and regularly[183]. Resists diseases[40], subject to canker according to another report[41]. Full flower day 16. Harvest the fruit at the end of October.

'Gascoyne's Scarlet'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is firm, dry, sweet and subacid[38]. In season September to February. A very vigorous tree with long limbs, it does well on chalk[38, 40]. A heavy cropper[38, 40]. A triploid species, it needs two other cultivars growing nearby for pollination. Full flower dat 17. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Gooseberry'

A cooking apple, the flesh is firm, subacid[38] and tender[37]. In season December to August. A moderately vigorous small tree, it is heavy cropping[38, 40]. Full flower day 18. Harvest the fruit in October or November.

'Hambledon Deux Ans'

A dual purpose apple, it is said to store for up to 2 years.

'Herring's Pippin'

A large dual purpose apple, the flesh is soft, juicy, slightly coarse, aromatic with a spicy flavour[38, 39, 183]. Rather dry[1]. In season October to November. A moderately vigorous upright spreading large tree[38, 183], it is well adapted to cold heavy soils[38, 183]. The croppping is very good and regular, even if the tree is neglected[38, 39, 40]. Resists scab[40]. Full flower day 18. Harvest the fruit in early October.

'Heusgon's Golden Reinette'

A dessert apple, the flesh is hard, crisp, juicy and subacid[40, 41]. It is rather like a Blenheim Orange in flavour[39]. In season January to April. A small tree with upright growth[40], it is hardy and a heavy cropper[39, 41]. Resists scab[40, 41]. Full flower late. The fruit should be harvested as late in the season as possible.

'Howgate Wonder'

A very large-fruited cooking apple with a firm, fine-textured fairly acid flesh[38, 183]. It cooks to a froth[183]. In season November to March. A very hardy vigorous spreading tree, cropping regularly and heavily[38, 40, 183]. Short fruiting spurs are produced abundantly[38]. Full flower day 15. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Ida Red'

A medium to large dual-purpose apple, the flesh is crisp, fine-grained, juicy, mild and aromatic. Of excellent dessert and cooking quality, it keeps exceptionally well, with the flavour improving whilst in storage[183]. Of poor flavour[38]. In season December to April. A vigorous upright tree, it is very productive but is somewhat susceptible to fireblight[183]. It forms fruit spurs readily[38]. Full flower day 10. Harvest the fruit in mid October or later (when it will become bright red).

'Ingrid Marie'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, sweet, subacid with a fair flavour[38]. The fruit tends to crack around the cavity[38]. In season December to April. Of moderate growth, it resists diseases and crops well[38, 40]. Full flower day 17. Harvest the fruit at the end of October.

'Irish Peach'

A small to medium eating apple, the flesh is soft, slightly aromatic, fairly juicy with a rich vinous flavour[38, 40, 183]. In season July to August. A moderately vigorous, spreading tree[183]. Trees are slow to come into bearing[40] and then crop irregularly[38]. Crops well, an easy apple according to other reports[1, 37, 41]. Succeeds in the north of Britain[41]. A tip bearer[38, 41]. Full flower day 8. Harvest the fruit as required for immediate use.

'John Standish'

A dessert apple, the flesh is crisp and juicy but lacks a distinctive flavour[40]. In season from November to March. A moderately sized tree with upright growth, it resists disease[40]. It tends to be biennial[1]. Full flower mid season. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Kidd's Orange Red'

A medium to large dessert apple, the flesh is firm but tender, crisp, juicy, sweet, aromatic[38, 183]. Of very good quality[183]. In season October to February. A vigorous upright tree of moderate size, it is very productive[38, 183]. Readily forms fruit spurs[38]. Best suited to warm climates[183]. Resistant to scab and mildew[40, 41, 183]. Full flower day 15. Harvest the fruit in early October.

'King of the Pippins

A medium-sized dessert apple, the flesh is firm, dry, highly aromatic with a very rich flavour that is distinctive, vinous and somewhat almond-like[38, 39, 40, 183]. Of excellent quality, it is in season from October to March[183]. A moderately vigorous upright hardy tree, it is very productive[38, 183] but tends to be biennial[1]. Susceptible to canker[38, 183] but resists scab[40, 41]. Full flower day 16. Harvest the fruit in mid October.

'King's Acre Pippin'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, subacid and richly flavoured[38, 40]. In season December to March. A very vigorous large spreading tree, it is slow to come into bearing but then crops heavily[38, 40]. It is very subject to 'Bitter Pit'[1]. Full flower day 15. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Lamb Abbey Pearmain'

A dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, sweet, subacid and aromatic[38]. Of good quality[37]. In season January to June. A moderate sized tree with vigorous upright growth[37, 38]. It crops well[37, 38]. Full flower day 10. Harvest the fruit in October or November.

'Laxton's Superb'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm and sweet with a refreshing flavour[38, 41]. In season from November to March. A very vigorous large and much-branched tree[38, 40], it crops very heavily but is inclined to be biennial[38, 39]. It succeeds in the north of Britain[38]. Subject to scab[38, 40]. The flowers resist frost damage[38, 41]. Prune laterals to 5 or 6 buds[38]. Full flower mid season. This cultivar is self-compatible[38]. Harvest the fruit in early November.

'Lord Burghley'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm sweet and rich[37, 38]. In season December to June. A vigorous tree, cropping is fairly good[38]. Cropping is poor according to another report[1]. The tree has burrs. Full flower day 19. Harvest the fruit in October or November.

'Lord Lambourne'

A dessert apple, the flesh is soft, juicy and sweet with a good flavour[38, 41]. In season October to January. A medium-sized vigorous but manageable tree[38, 40, 41], it crops regularly and heavily[38, 41]. It succeeds in N. Britain[38] but dislikes damp districts[39]. Does well as a standard[39]. Full flower day 11. This cultivar is self-compatible[38, 41]. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Margil'

A small to medium-sized dessert apple, the flesh is firm, rather dry, sweet, rich and aromatic[38, 39, 183]. It is one of the best flavoured apples[40, 41]. In season November to May. An exceedingly small weak-growing tree, it is well suited to small gardens[38, 39, 40, 183]. Crops well in all districts and is suitable for windy gardens[38, 39, 41]. Cropping is light according to another report[40], whilst another says that it tends to overcrop[37]. Full flower day 13. Harvest the fruit in October.

'May Queen'

A dessert apple, the flesh is crisp with an unusual sweet subacid flavour[38, 39]. It is sometimes astringent[38]. Dry and nutty[1]. The fruit tends to shrivel prematurely[1]. In season November to May. A small slender tree[38, 39, 40], it crops lightly according to one report[38], whilst others say that it crops heavily[39, 40]. Resists scab[39]. Full flower day 16. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Melrose'

A medium to large dual purpose apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, juicy, slightly acid with a rich flavour[38, 183]. Of excellent quality[183]. In season December to April. A fairly vigorous tree, it crops well[38, 40], but is susceptible to 'Fireblight'[160]. It requires a position in full sun if the fruit is to colour well[160]. Full flower day 16. Harvest the fruit in October or November.

'Merton Worcester'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, sweet and aromatic[38]. In season September to October. A vigorous spreading tree, it crops well and regularly[38, 41]. Suitable for growing in N. Britain[38], it prefers drier districts[39]. A tip-bearer, but it also produces plenty of spurs. Full flower day 13. Harvest the fruit in September.

'Monarch'

A dual purpose apple with a large fruit, the flesh is soft and acid[38, 183]. Bruises easily[41]. An excellent apple for grilling[183], it becomes mellow in January and is then suitable for dessert[38, 40]. In season November to May. A vigorous productive tree, cropping is usually regular and heavy[38, 40] but there is a tendency towards biennial bearing[38, 183]. The wood is brittle and might need support[38, 39]. Resistant to scab and other diseases[38, 183]. Full flower day 14. This cultivar is self-compatible. Harvest the fruit in November.

'Nonpareil'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, juicy, rich, sweet and aromatic[37]. In season January to May. A small tree, it is somewhat tender and susceptible to canker in cold wet soils[37]. It thrives and bears well in good soils and situations[37]. Full flower mid season. Harvest the fruit in October or November

'Ontario'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is sweet, subacid, crisp and juicy[1, 38]. In season November to May. A moderately sized tree[40], it has vigorous sturdy growth[38]. Cropping is good and regular[38, 41], but there is a tendancy to be biennial[1, 41]. The flowers resist frost damage[41]. Full flower day 12. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Orlean's Reinette'

A medium to large dessert apple, the flesh is very crisp, very juicy, sweet with a distinct rich nutty flavour[38, 183]. In season November to April. A vigorous upright spreading tree, it is hardy and a prolific cropper[38, 40, 183]. Plants are very hardy but are susceptible to scab in a poor soil[38, 40]. Otherwise, they are seldom bothered by disease[39]. Full flower day 19. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Oslin'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, very rich, sweet and juicy[37]. It has a peculiar brisk and highly aromatic flavour - an excellent apple[37]. In season August to September. A reasonably hardy, moderate size tree, it crops well[37]. It does not grow well in highly manured soils[37]. Subject to canker[37]. Full flower day mid season. Harvest the fruit as required in August and September.

'Page One'

A small dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, sweet, juicy and subacid[K]. In season August to November. A medium-size upright tree, it crops regularly and heavily[K]. Full flower mid season. Harvest the fruit as required in August and early September, in mid September to store.

'Pitmaston Pineapple'

A small dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, very juicy, sweet, sub-acid, rich, with somewhat of a pineapple flavour[38, 40, 183]. In season September to February. A small upright very productive tree, it is very suitable for small gardens[38, 183]. Full flower day 15. Harvest the fruit in September.

'Powell's Russet'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, rich and sweet[39]. In season February to June. A small upright tree, it comes into bearing quickly[39]. Grows well in west Britain, it is the best russet for moist areas[39]. Full flower day mid season. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Ribston Pippin'

A medium to large dessert apple, the flesh is very firm, crisp, fine-grained, richly sweet, very aromatic[38, 183]. An apple of excellent quality[38, 183]. In season November to March. A vigorous spreading moderate sized tree[38, 183]. Succeeds in N. Britain[41]. Cropping is regular, but sometimes light[1, 39]. Bears fruit on short spurs[183] so prune laterals to 3 or 4 buds[38]. Susceptible to canker when grown in poor soils[38, 40]. Requires plenty of moisture at its roots[37, 39]. Resists scab[40]. A triploid cultivar, it cannot be relied upon to pollinate other trees. Full flower day 11. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Ross Nonpareil'

A small to medium-sized dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, sweet and aromatic[38, 40, 183] with a pronounced anise-like flavour[183]. In season October to February. A moderately vigorous upright and productive tree[38, 183]. Resists scab[38, 40]. Full flower day 11. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Roundway Magnum Bomum'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, rather dry, sweet with a distinctive rather pear-like flavour[38, 40]. In season November to April. A moderately sized tree with vigorous growth, cropping is fairly good[1, 38, 40]. Full flower day 14. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Roxbury Russet'

A medium to large dessert apple, the flesh is firm, somewhat coarse, juicy, sprightly subacid[183]. Sweet, crisp and rich[37]. Of good to very good dessert quality, it is an excellent juice and cider[183]. In season January to May. A large vigorous roundish-spreading tree, it is productive but tends towards biennial bearing[160, 183]. It crops well, even in unfavourable seasons[37]. Full flower very early. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Sam Young'

A dessert apple, the flesh is rich, juicy and highly flavoured[37, 39]. The fruit is apt to crack[37]. In season November to February. A moderate sized tree, it crops well[37]. Succeeds on a cold clay soil[39]. Full flower not known. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Sanspareil'

A dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, sweet, aromatic and well-flavoured[38, 40]. In season December to March. A moderate sized vigorous hardy tree, it crops well[38, 40]. Disease resistant[38, 40]. Full flower day 12. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Spartan'

A medium size dessert apple, the flesh is very firm, crisp, juicy, fairly sweet[38, 40, 183]. The quality and texture are very good[183]. In season November to March. A moderately vigorous upright spreading tree, it crops heavily and regularly[38, 41, 183]. Fruit spurs are freely produced[38]. Disease resistant[38, 40]. The flowers resist damage by frost[38]. Full flower day 15. Harvest the fruit in October or November.

'St Edmund's Pippin'

A small to medium dessert apple, it is fairly firm, tender, juicy[38, 183]. The flavour is very rich and quite sweet but with a nice balance of acidity[183]. A good russet flavour[40, 41]. In season from late September to November, though it does not store well[41]. A fairly vigorous upright spreading small tree[38, 40, 41, 183], it crops very well but tends to overcrop and produce small fruit[38, 40, 41]. Very hardy, it is suitable for northern areas[38, 183], though it grows best in the east[39]. A tip bearer[39, 40]. Full flower day 10. Harvest the fruit as required for immediate use and in October to store.

'ST Wright'

A very large cooking apple, the flesh is firm and acid. In season October to November. A large vigorous tree. Full flower not known. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Sturmer Pippin'

A medium-sized dessert apple, the flesh is very firm, crisp, juicy, rich and subacid[38, 183]. A gooseberry-like flavour[39]. A good content of vitamin C[41]. Of excellent quality, it is in season from November but continues to ripen in storage and is at its best from February to June. It requires a warm summer and lots of autumn sunshine to ripen properly[38, 40, 183]. The tree is moderately vigorous, compact and productive[1, 38, 40, 183]. It grows best in the West Country[41]. Full flower day 13. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Sunset'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, sweet, slightly acid and aromatic[38, 41]. A moderately vigorous compact tree[1, 38, 40], it crops regularly and heavily[1, 38] even when young[39]. Prune the laterals to 3 or 4 buds[38]. Prefers a heavy loam[39]. Resists scab[38, 40]. Full flower day 12. This cultivar is self-compatible. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Suntan'

A dessert apple, it has a rich sweet aromatic flavour, rather like a Cox's Orange Pippin[41]. In season October to February. A moderately sized tree[40]. Disease resistant, but susceptible to 'Bitter Pit'[40]. The blossom resists damage by frost[41]. This cultivar is a cross between Cox's Orange Pippin and 'Court Pendu Plat' and is more suitable than the Cox for growing in the wetter and cooler parts of Britain. Low temperature breakdown of the fruit occurs at temperatures below 3�c. A triploid, its pollen cannot be relied upon to fertilize other trees. Full flower mid season. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Tuscan'

A dessert apple, the flesh is fairly sweet. A vigorous columnar tree, it does not produce side branches. Full flower not known. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Tydeman's Late Orange'

A medium-sized dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, sweet, subacid, aromatic and rich[38, 183]. Of excellent quality, it is in season from December to April[183]. A vigorous upright-spreading and productive tree[38, 183]. It grows best in the drier areas of Britain[39]. Full flower day 16. Harvest the fruit in October to November.

'Wagener'

A medium to large dessert apple, it is fine-grained, crisp, juicy, sub-acid, aromatic, sprightly[1, 38, 183]. Of excellent quality[1, 183], it is in season December to April. A small to medium moderately vigorous tree[39, 40, 183], it crops very heavily[38, 39, 40] though it tends to be biennial[1]. Resists scab[38, 40]. The blossoms resist damabe by frost[41]. Full flower day 9. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Winston'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, juicy, sweet, slightly subacid and aromatic[1, 38, 39]. In season ? A vigorous upright tree, it crops very heavily though it tends to overcrop and produce small fruits[38]. It succeeds in all soils and also in N. Britain[38, 39]. Resists disease[39], including scab[38, 40]. Full flower day 18. This cultivar is self-compatible. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

'Woolbrook Russet'

A dual purpose apple, the flesh is firm, juicy and somewhat acid[1]. It makes a delicious dessert apple in the New Year[39]. In season November to April. A vigorous and upright moderately sized tree[39, 40], it crops regularly[1]. It bears especially well in light soils[39]. Resists scab[40]. Full flower late season. Harvest the fruit in October or November.

'Worcester Cross'

A dessert apple, the flesh is firm, fairly crisp and fairly sweet[38]. In season October to December. A fairly vigorous small hardy tree[38, 40], it crops well[38]. Resists scab[38, 40]. Full flower day 11. Harvest the fruit in October.

'Worcester Pearmain'

A dessert apple, the flesh is crisp, fairly juicy, sweet and with a good flavour when it is properly ripened and eaten straight from the tree[38, 39]. In season August to October. A large, hardy, moderately vigorous fairly upright tree[38, 39], it crops regularly[39]. Succeeds on most soils[38, 39]. Disease free[39], though another report says that it is susceptible to scab[1]. The flowers are fairly resistant to frost damage[38, 41]. A tip bearer[38]. Full flower day 14. Harvest the fruit as required for immediate use.

'Wyken Pippin'

A small dessert apple, the flesh is firm, crisp, sweet, slightly aromatic with a good flavour[38, 183]. In season from December to March. A small hardy compact upright tree[38, 40], it is very productive[38, 40, 183] even when young[39]. It requires a moist soil[39]. Full flower day 17. Harvest the fruit as late in the season as possible.

Links

This plant is also mentioned in the following PFAF articles: The Potted Garden.

References

[K] Ken Fern
Notes from observations, tasting etc at Plants For A Future and on field trips.

[1] F. Chittendon. RHS Dictionary of Plants plus Supplement. 1956 Oxford University Press 1951
Comprehensive listing of species and how to grow them. Somewhat outdated, it has been replaces in 1992 by a new dictionary (see [200]).

[4] Grieve. A Modern Herbal. Penguin 1984 ISBN 0-14-046-440-9
Not so modern (1930's?) but lots of information, mainly temperate plants.

[9] Launert. E. Edible and Medicinal Plants. Hamlyn 1981 ISBN 0-600-37216-2
Covers plants in Europe. a drawing of each plant, quite a bit of interesting information.

[11] Bean. W. Trees and Shrubs Hardy in Great Britain. Vol 1 - 4 and Supplement. Murray 1981
A classic with a wealth of information on the plants, but poor on pictures.

[18] Philbrick H. and Gregg R. B. Companion Plants. Watkins 1979
Details of beneficial and antagonistic relationships between neighbouring plants.

[20] Riotte. L. Companion Planting for Successful Gardening. Garden Way, Vermont, USA. 1978 ISBN 0-88266-064-0
Fairly good.

[37] Thompson. B. The Gardener's Assistant. Blackie and Son. 1878
Excellent general but extensive guide to gardening practices in the 19th century. A very good section on fruits and vegetables with many little known species.

[38] Simmons A. E. Simmons' Manual of Fruit. David & Charles. 1978 ISBN 0-7153-7607-1
A good guide to some of the cultivars of temperate fruits. It covers quite a wide range of fruits.

[39] Genders. R. Planting Fruit Trees. Robert Hale Ltd. 1956
A general book on growing fruit in Britain, it does give some descriptions of little known cultivars.

[40] Scott's Nursery Scott's Fruit Catalogue. 1985 edition. Scott's Nursery 1985
A nursery catalogue giving descriptions of the wide range of trees and shrubs they grow, including a good range of apples.

[41] Hills. L. Good Fruit Guide. Henry Doubleday Research Ass. 0
Very dated now, it lists a good range of fruit trees and shrubs with brief descriptions of most of them and details of where they can be obtained.

[46] Uphof. J. C. Th. Dictionary of Economic Plants. Weinheim 1959
An excellent and very comprehensive guide but it only gives very short descriptions of the uses without any details of how to utilize the plants. Not for the casual reader.

[61] Usher. G. A Dictionary of Plants Used by Man. Constable 1974 ISBN 0094579202
Forget the sexist title, this is one of the best books on the subject. Lists a very extensive range of useful plants from around the world with very brief details of the uses. Not for the casual reader.

[142] Brouk. B. Plants Consumed by Man. Academic Press 1975 ISBN 0-12-136450-x
Readable but not very comprehensive.

[160] Natural Food Institute, Wonder Crops. 1987. 0
Fascinating reading, this is an annual publication. Some reports do seem somewhat exaggerated though.

[171] Hill. A. F. Economic Botany. The Maple Press 1952
Not very comprehensive, but it is quite readable and goes into some a bit of detail about the plants it does cover.

[183] Facciola. S. Cornucopia - A Source Book of Edible Plants. Kampong Publications 1990 ISBN 0-9628087-0-9
Excellent. Contains a very wide range of conventional and unconventional food plants (including tropical) and where they can be obtained (mainly N. American nurseries but also research institutes and a lot of other nurseries from around the world.

[200] Huxley. A. The New RHS Dictionary of Gardening. 1992. MacMillan Press 1992 ISBN 0-333-47494-5
Excellent and very comprehensive, though it contains a number of silly mistakes. Readable yet also very detailed.

[201] Allardice.P. A - Z of Companion Planting. Cassell Publishers Ltd. 1993 ISBN 0-304-34324-2
A well produced and very readable book.

[218] Duke. J. A. and Ayensu. E. S. Medicinal Plants of China Reference Publications, Inc. 1985 ISBN 0-917256-20-4
Details of over 1,200 medicinal plants of China and brief details of their uses. Often includes an analysis, or at least a list of constituents. Heavy going if you are not into the subject.

[219] Grey-Wilson. C. & Matthews. V. Gardening on Walls Collins 1983 ISBN 0-00-219220-0
A nice little book about plants for growing against walls and a small section on plants that can grow in walls.

[226] Lauriault. J. Identification Guide to the Trees of Canada Fitzhenry and Whiteside, Ontario. 1989 ISBN 0889025649
Very good on identification for non-experts, the book also has a lot of information on plant uses.

[240] Chopra. R. N., Nayar. S. L. and Chopra. I. C. Glossary of Indian Medicinal Plants (Including the Supplement). Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, New Delhi. 1986
Very terse details of medicinal uses of plants with a wide range of references and details of research into the plants chemistry. Not for the casual reader.

[269] Duke. J. Handbook of Energy Crops - 1983
Published only on the Internet, excellent information on a wide range of plants.

Readers Comments

Crataegus Species - The Hawthorns.

erik Thu Jun 21 00:22:10 2001

Crataegus opaca and C. aestivalis (& hybrids), "Mayhaws," are locally important in the S.E. USA for jellymaking, where many consider them the best fruit for that purpose. I find the flavor very similar to good crabapples --good since most apples die w/in months in the Deep South. Like quince, no one eats them raw. Cedar-quince rust is the only disease problem I've seen.

Crataegus Species - The Hawthorns.

Mehmet Uludogan Fri Nov 29 21:20:00 2002

hello we have two types of crataegea in Turkey the endemic plant C.Dikmensis , and C.tanacetifolia both of them are very delicious fruits . last year I saw another type of Cratagea plant in Ýstanbul the flowers of the plants were magnifecent , but their fruits were inedible ..I will be very pleased to have seeds of different kinds of edible type of this plant , I can send the seeds of the Turkish type of the plant thank you for your cooperation greetings from Ýstanbul Turkey

Malus domestica

David Beaulieu Tue Jan 10 2006

Apple Trees Information about how to choose between varieties of apple trees.

Malus domestica

Richard Borrie Fri Sep 22 2006

Orange Pippin Tasting notes, descriptions, and relationships for many apple varieties

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