Summer Rambo Apple Tree
Description
About the Summer Rambo Apple Tree
An heirloom treasure with deep roots in early American orchards, the Summer Rambo Apple Tree dates back to 16th-century France, where it was known as Rambour d'Été. Revered by colonists for its vibrant flavor and early ripening, this apple remains a beloved variety for cider, sauce, and fresh eating.
The fruit is medium to large with bold, red-striped skin and crisp, yellow flesh that’s incredibly juicy. Its subacid, aromatic flavor has a hint of wine-like tartness, making it ideal for juice, cider, cooking, and applesauce. While it doesn’t store long, the unforgettable taste and texture make it a seasonal highlight.
This vigorous, upright-spreading tree is cold-hardy and shows good resistance to fire blight. Though it requires a compatible pollinator, it cannot serve as one due to its triploid nature. Expect a strong yield in late summer, typically ripening in August.
How to Grow the Summer Rambo Apple Tree
Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Grows best in Zones 4–8. Thin fruit early for optimal size and quality, and provide consistent water during dry months. Regular pruning helps maintain shape and airflow. Though early to bear, this tree may alternate between heavy and light crop years.
With its antique charm and complex flavor, the Summer Rambo Apple Tree offers a connection to the orchards of the past — and a bounty of fresh, juicy apples each season. A must-have for those seeking heirloom varieties with early harvest rewards.
Note: Triploid; cannot pollinate other apple trees.
Survival Guaranteed!
Since 1816, Stark Bro’s has promised to provide customers with the very best fruit trees and plants. It’s just that simple. If your trees or plants do not survive, please let us know within one year of delivery. We will send you a free one-time replacement, with a nominal shipping fee of $9.99. If the item in question is not available, we can issue a one-time credit to your account equaling the original product purchase price or issue you a refund. Read more about our warranty policy.
Characteristics
| Bloom Color | White |
| Bloom Time | Early |
| Fruit Color | Red |
| Fruit Size | Large |
| Hardiness Zone Range | 4 - 8 |
| Pollination | Pollinator Required |
| Ripens/Harvest | August |
| Shade/Sun | Full Sun |
| Soil Composition | Loamy |
| Soil Moisture | Well Drained |
| Soil pH Level | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Texture | Crisp, Firm |
| Years to Bear | 2 - 5 |
Size & Spacing
Mature Size
Recommended Spacing
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.
Shipping Information
Arrives when it's time to plant
Questions & Answers
We appreciate you reaching out to us. You can find the years-to-bear information in the Characteristics section, near the top of the page, underneath the description. This tree takes 2 - 5 years to bear.
If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to reach back out to us. Have a great day!
Yellow Del or another early pollinator will be good for Rambo as it is sterile. Honey Crisp requires another type of apple that blooms at the same time. Check the pollinator chart at Adams County Nursery website for accurate info. They offer the best trees and help!
This variety is an early bloomer and ripen is August to harvest.
Customer Reviews
Jan Eastman
Memories of my grandmother’s summer rambo applesauce. We ate slices of frozen applesauce in the summer.
These apples have been a favorite for many generations.
To add an early variety to my existing trees
Medium to large apple. Traditional apple. Hardy