Madeline Apple

Overview

The following description of the 'Madeline' apple was written by its namesake, Madeline Mazurski—a botanist, landscape architect, and fruit explorer from Missoula, MT—who shared this note with us when she provided cuttings from the tree.

Madeline Mazurski’s Original Description

"In the middle Rattlesnake, there are numerous apple and pear trees scattered about. Some of these may be from old homesteads or old orchards; others may be from seeds from these old trees. I am not familiar with all the history of this area, but I did hear that this area was part of an old post office/way station for people going over the Mt Jumbo Saddle.

I first noticed this tree in mid-December 2024, when I walked by and saw it covered in small red apples. I tasted one and it was still crisp and flavorful. Although late 2024 was not super cold, we did have some dips into lower temperatures. Other apple trees in the area either did not still have apples on the branches or their apples were 'mummified'.

I went by again in late January; there were still a few apples on the tree. I tasted one: the outer skin was shell-like/hard almost like an avocado. When I cut through the flesh, it was custardy and flavorful, not mushy.

I am thinking this is a specially adapted apple, that provided apples late into the season, extending the time for fresh food, and worth saving."

Lastly, Madeline ended the note (dated 3/11/25) by stating, “P.s. I harvested the last apple today (a squirrel got the other one) and it was still good eating!"

Cold Hardiness and Significance

Because this apple not only hangs late on the tree but also resists the freeze–thaw breakdown so common in cold climates, it shows some remarkable characteristics. Having endured decades in the Rattlesnake Valley, it is likely hardy to at least –40°F. The 'Madeline' apple may well be worth experimenting with and could even play a role in future breeding work.