Spitzenburg Apple Tree
Description
Also called esopus spitzenberg apple
Thomas Jefferson’s favorite apple! This tree’s fruit was once the standard of excellence for early American apples. Has exceptional, complex, spicy flavor that improves with time in storage. One of the finest for eating, canning, cooking, and juice. Antique variety, originates from Esopus, New York, circa 1800s. Cold-hardy. Ripens in late October. Pollinator required: Choose another apple variety. See Recommended Pollinators below.
Characteristics
Bloom Color | White |
Bloom Time | Mid - Late |
Fruit Color | Red |
Fruit Size | Medium |
Hardiness Zone Range | 4 - 8 |
Pollination | Pollinator Required |
Ripens/Harvest | Late October |
Shade/Sun | Full Sun |
Soil Composition | Loamy |
Soil Moisture | Well Drained |
Soil pH Level | 6.0 - 7.0 |
Taste | Sweet |
Texture | Firm |
Years to Bear | 2 - 5 |
Zone Compatibility
Pollination
Tools & Supplies
Planting & Care
Learn all about how to grow apple trees in The Growing Guide. An entire section of our website dedicated to your growing success.
Questions & Answers
One species cannot pollinate another; for example, a plum cannot pollinate an apple, and a pear cannot pollinate a peach. A fruit tree that requires a pollinator needs a different variety of the same species that has a similar bloom time. Best pollinators: any Golden Delicious, Newtown Pippin, or Cortland.
Customer Reviews
The Esopus Spitzenburg was one of Thomas Jefferson's favorite apples.
This year my tree produced the first two apples. I know why Jefferson liked this apple. It is a russet so it's not pretty but the taste, just wow. Unbelievably delicious. I live in the Hudson Valley and it's difficult to taste this apple as the crop is usually very small and only diehard apple enthusiasts plant this tree. I guess what I'm saying is this tree is a lot of work but the end result is totally worth it. Don't use this tree for an entire orchard but plant it as a specimen. A side note, I do not spray or use chemicals. I try to plant with biodiversity (permaculture/food forestry). If you use Chemicals the tree may be healthier in the beginning.
Heirloom, love the flavor.
Thomas Jefferson liked this apple. Good enough for me!
Antique variety, Jefferson's apple
Heirloom apples are my hobby, and this was Mr. Jefferson's favorite