Apple: ashmead's Kernel

Description

A late dessert apple raised around 1700 by Dr. Ashmead of Gloucester, but which did not become widely planted and popular until the middle of the nineteenth century. Very much appreciated by Victorians and Edwardians because of its complex flavour, which is both sweet and sharp, and for its firm white flesh. Sweetness develops with storage. In the first half of the 20th century it fell into obscurity, but enjoyed a revival later. The trees have attractive blossom and the fruit stores until February. Cropping can be irregular. 

According to The Herefordshire Pomana, an apple-related magazine published in the early 1880's this variety is "firm, crisp, juicy, sugary, rich and highly aromatic, it should be found in every garden," and we agree. Raised in Gloucestershire in the c.1700, this has a rich golden brown semi-russeted skin with firm flesh. A good choice for a sweet flavour with some russeting. Cropping can be irregular, but this remains a fantastic-flavoured apple for the connoiseur.

Latin name: Malus Domestica, Ashmead's Kernel
Type: dessert
Uses: eating, apple juice, cider
Flavour: very good, 'pear-drop'
Pollination group: 4

Flowering time: 9 May (start) 14 May (full) 22 May (over)
Picking time:  early October
Eating/storing time:  November - March
Rootstock: M25
Year planted: 2012