Mutsu Apple Tree

Mutsu — also known as Crispin — is the apple that stops people in their tracks at harvest time. Noticeably larger and rounder than most varieties, with smooth yellow-green skin and a rich, spicy-sweet flavor that’s more complex than its Golden Delicious parent, it’s become a cult favorite among apple enthusiasts who appreciate depth and size over uniformity. Developed in Japan’s Mutsu Province from a cross of Golden Delicious and the Japanese variety Indo, it was introduced in 1948 and has earned a loyal following ever since.

Big, Flavorful, and Unlike Anything Else in the Orchard

Mutsu’s flavor is its defining quality — a spicy-sweet complexity with real depth that goes well beyond the mild sweetness of Golden Delicious. The fruit is large, crisp, and juicy with smooth skin that resists russeting and coarse flesh that delivers a satisfying, substantial bite. It ripens in late September to early October, extending the apple season into fall, and stores well without shriveling under proper refrigeration.

A Versatile Apple for Fresh Eating, Baking, and Cider

Mutsu’s size, flavor complexity, and firm texture make it outstanding across a range of uses. Fresh off the tree it’s exceptional — juicy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. It holds up well in baking and cooking, and its flavor profile contributes real character to fresh-pressed cider. It’s a tagged Cider Apple Tree for a reason.

Why Growers Choose Mutsu

• Impressive large fruit size — noticeably bigger and rounder than most apple varieties
• Complex spicy-sweet flavor — more depth and character than standard Golden Delicious
• Smooth skin that resists russeting — beautiful, clean appearance at harvest
• Excellent keeper — stores well without shriveling under proper refrigeration
• Late-season harvest — ripens late September to early October to extend your picking season
• Low chill hour requirement — only 500 hours, adaptable to mild-winter climates

Important Pollination Note

Mutsu is a triploid variety — it requires a compatible pollinator planted within 100 feet, but cannot itself pollinate other apple trees. Plan accordingly and ensure at least one diploid variety is nearby for cross-pollination.