Description
First raised in 1835 by the Head Gardener at Holker Hall, Cumbria (For the Duke of Devonshire - and hence its name), this became one of the most popular dessert varieties in Edwardian times. It has an intense sweet-sharp flavour very similar to Ashmead's Kernel. Medium-sized flattish apples which are a golden-green, with some russeting, and a tolerance of wetter regions, it grows well in Cumbria, being scab resistant.
"Perhaps for some a misleading epithet, for this russetted Lancashire apple was raised at Holker Hall, (now in Cumbria) for the Duke of Devonshire, by his Head Gardener, Mr. Wilson in 1835. An estate orchard favourite, though uncharitably and mistakenly, some writers have said that it is chiefly valued for its late-keeping qualities. On the contrary, it was 'quite indispensable for late use' on account of its intense, sweet-acid, nutty, peardrop flavour and crisp, juicy, creamy flesh. Grown on a small commercial scale in the early decades of the twentieth century, it grows well in northern Britain, including the wetter west, in the Cumbrian Fells and Dales." © Lin Hawthorne - 'The Northern Pomona'.
For help with choosing the correct rootstock for your needs, please click here A Guide to Rootstocks
For help with choosing the correct size and shape, please click here A Guide to Fruit Tree Shapes
