Jonagold Apple Tree

About the Jonagold Apple Tree

The Jonagold Apple Tree is prized for its complex, dessert-quality flavor that balances sweetness with a bright, refreshing tang. A classic cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious, this variety delivers crisp, juicy apples that are rich enough to enjoy on their own, yet versatile enough for fresh use and winter storage.

Jonagold apples ripen in mid-September and are known for their large size, excellent texture, and well-rounded flavor profile. They perform especially well for fresh eating and short- to mid-term keeping, making them a favorite among gardeners who value both taste and harvest quality.

Developed by Cornell University’s apple breeding program at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva, New York, Jonagold was selected in 1953 and introduced in 1968. It remains a standout for flavor-focused home orchards.

This variety requires cross-pollination and will not pollinate other apple trees. For best results, plant with another compatible diploid apple variety that blooms mid-season. See recommendations below.

Jonagold thrives when given good airflow and regular care, which supports healthy growth and helps minimize common apple diseases such as scab, powdery mildew, and fire blight.

• Here’s where you can find our complete list of Jonathan Apple Trees to choose from.

Note: Triploid; cannot pollinate other apple trees.