Description
Originated in the 1840s, and introduced in 1857 by John Lane, nurseryman of Berkhampstead, Hertfordshire. A pale green fruit with pinkish flush, that is smooth and slightly greasy skinned. Does not keep quite as long as Bramley's Seedling or Monarch, but its compact growth and prolific and reliable cropping recommend its suitability for small gardens. One of the finest cooking apples, making a 'lemony' puree, or if kept till March makes a refreshing eater too. Succeeds in most soils.
"Raised by Thomas Squire at Berkhamstead, Hertfordshire, who named it Victoria and Albert in a gust of patriotic fervour to commemorate the day the Royal couple changed horses at his local, The King's Arms. It was introduced by John Lane, nurseryman of that parish c. 1850, who renamed it. 'Excellent, very prolific', said Backhouses, who probably supplied the tree that grew in Hilary Wilson's grandfather's garden in York; old trees are frequently found when restoring northern orchards, in home, estate and market orchards, in the drier east and wetter west, including those in the Clyde Valley. It has the advantage of being a neat, compact and heavy cropping. Indeed, its commercial success extended across northern Europe; in eastern Germany, it is eaten as a sharp, early-spring dessert and grown commercially for juice. Where you might use a Bramley in the kitchen, you could choose this; the lemon yellow purée is brisk, sweeter later. Handle the smooth flesh gently, for it marks easily." © 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