Duchess Apple

Malus domestica 'Duchess'

Duchess is a very old heritage variety that is still a treat in the early summer. It is a good cooking apple, but just ordinary for fresh eating. Duchess is a medium to large, greenish yellow apple with bright red striping and splashes. It has russetted dots which are distinctive. The flesh is white, fine, firm and juicy. It is not a long term keeper, but is a good seasonal apple ripening in mid-August.

Height 12-16 Feet

Spread 10-15 Feet

USDA Hardiness Zone 4-8

Malus domestica 'Duchess' Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips Duchess is an early to mid-season blooming apple and will pollinate easily with most other apples. The tree is moderately vigorous and only somewhat susceptible to fire blight. It is vigorous, productive and spreading.

A Little History about Duchess Apple Duchess of Oldenburg is the original name of this variety. It orginally came from Russia, where it had been a favorite since the early 1700's, when it was introduced to England around 1815. Thence it came to America. Grandpa grew many Duchess before the warand into the 1960's and 1970's when better varieties came around.

Malus domestica 'Duchess' Characteristics & Attributes

Bloom Character • Mid-season blooming • Pollinizer needed • Thin early for size	Fruit Characteristics • Medium size fruit	Growth Rate/Habit • Average vigor • Spreading habit	Harvest Period • Mid-season
Other Attributes • Very juicy • Short shelf-life • Sweet-tart	Site Requirements • Full Sun • Very hardy	Skill Required • Average skill	Uses • High dessert quality • Good for sauce