The Spitzenburg apple tree was discovered in the late 1700s by an early Dutch settler of that name. It was found at the settlement of Esopus, on the Hudson River, in Ulster County, New York. Much attention was bestowed upon Spitzenburg apples when Thomas Jefferson ordered a dozen trees for his orchard in Monticello. The Spitzenburg apple is unexcelled in flavor and quality, the fruit is great off the tree, but flavor improves immensely in storage. The Spitzenburg apple is often medium sized with crisp, yellow skin covered with inconspicuous red stripes and russet freckles. Flesh is tinged yellow, firm, aromatic, complex in flavor with sprightly and spicy undertones complimented with a perfect balance between sharp and sweet. The Spitzenburg apple tree can be shy bearing tree. So plant more Spitzenburg apple trees! They're truly the king of all the apples. Please see below for further insight on our heirloom apple tree Spitzenburg and discover additional consideration for selecting the appropriate fruit trees to buy for your home and small farm.
USDA Certified Organic
Considerations for Spitzenburg Apple
USDA Zones: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Heirloom: Yes
Uses: Cider, Desserts / Pies, Cooking / Sauces, Fresh Eating
Harvest Period: Late
Low Chill: Yes
Bloom Period: Midseason
Pollination Requirement: Requires different variety with same bloom period
Origin Date: New York late 1700's
Storage: 3 Months or More
Rootstock: MM 111 (semi-dwarf)
Years to Bear: 2-4 years
Recommended Spacing: 12-16 ft.
Mature Size: 12-16 ft.
Water Requirements: 12-15 gallons per week May through Sept.
Shape when Shipped: Feathered and whips (few side branching)
Size supplied when shipped: Our trees range in height from 4-8 ft. in our field and trimmed to 4 to 5 ft. when shipped. Our young two year trees are most often feathered (side limbs). The trees diameter (caliper) is often 1/2 to 3/4 inch;
*As noted by University of California Scientists and other qualified professionals the most successful trees often have caliper from 1/2" to 5/8" and usually establish faster than smaller and larger planting stock.