Tropical Winter Apple

Overview

This apple is unlike anything we've ever had, and in a very good way. It has been growing on David and Janet Stickler’s Amazing Grace Farm on the west side of the Missoula Valley for at least 60 years. While it resembles Winter Banana in appearance, it lacks the classic suture that typically defines Winter Banana. We planned to get this apple DNA 'fingerprinted' to see what it is but have not done so yet. Until then, we are calling it Tropical Winter. If it turns out to be a named cultivar, we will update you accordingly.

Flavor Profile

The flavor of this apple is exceptional. According to Elizabeth, it has a honey flavor that is sweet and very pleasant. Luke recalls the flavor having tropical fruit notes with hints of pineapple and honey. The apple has a great crunch and is very juicy.

Harvesting Tips

The apples are ready for harvest when the green skin turns to yellow. Once this happens, the flavor transformation is night and day compared to unripe apples.

Not all apples will turn yellow at the same time, so expect to harvest over a 1-2 week period.

This is a late apple, ripening in Missoula between the first and second weeks of October.

Hardiness & Growth

The apple has survived in one of the coldest, lowest parts of Missoula, withstanding temperatures near -40F without winter injury.

Rootstock & Planting

We have grafted this onto Bud 118 rootstock, which is hardy to -45 to -50F. This apple is untested in areas where temperatures regularly fall below -40F.