Apple Roxbury Russet

Roxbury Russet is, as far as historians can determine, the first apple bred in North America. It originated with the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 17th century, and quickly became known as "the Roz." (Other monikers include Howe's Russet, Leathercoat, and Reinette Rousse de Boston!) It remained popular throughout the 18th century, and Thomas Jefferson eventually included it in his orchard at Monticello. (There is a record of it growing in the South Orchard in 1778.) It has been continuously grown, despite the many hundred varieties to come after it!

Okay, history is one thing, but flavor is all that counts in this fruit, and the Roz lives up to its grand heritage. It's got a nice high sugar content (about 12.8%), yet the bite is crisp and pleasantly tart. Storage just improves the flavor. It was originally grown for cider and juice, but quickly became a favorite for fresh eating, too.

Rosbury Russet is coarse-grained -- that's what "russet" means when it comes to apples. It has green skin and yellowish-green flesh, very firm and juicy. Simply delicious!

This apple matures late -- September to October in most areas -- on trees that resist scab, fire blight, and cedar apple rust, among other diseases. Just 8 to 15 feet tall and 15 to 25 feet wide, it's a good size for the home garden. Its rootstock is "MM.111," known for its drought tolerance and good adaptability. Plant Roz near any other apple tree (or another Roz, for that matter!) and it will bear heavily for decades!

If you love heirloom apples as we do, try our other two finds this season: Grimes Golden and Carolina Red! Zones 5-8.