Pumpkin Sweet apple, a rare heirloom variety frequently referred to as the Pound Sweet.
Originating in Manchester, Connecticut, in the early 1800s, this variety was first formally recorded in 1834 in the orchards of S. Lyman. Despite its name, it does not taste like pumpkin; rather, it is named for its massive, rounded shape and distinctively sweet, low-acid flavor. The taste is often described as mild with unique notes of melon or cream soda.
Because it lacks balancing acidity, the Pumpkin Sweet is generally not favored for fresh eating. However, its dense flesh and natural sweetness make it a celebrated heritage choice for baking, pies, butter, and sauces. Historically, its high sugar content allowed cooks to produce apple butter and sauces without adding expensive cane sugar. Notably, during the Civil War, large harvests in Ohio were used to supply barrels of apple butter to both Union and Confederate armies. Please see below for further insight on our heirloom apple tree Pound Sweet and discover additional consideration for selecting the appropriate fruit trees to buy for your home and small farm.
Considerations for Pumpkin Sweet Apple
USDA Zones: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Heirloom: Yes
Uses: Cider, Cooking / Sauces, Desserts / Pies, Fresh Eating
Harvest Period: Midseason
Low Chill: Yes
Bloom Period: Midseason
Pollination Requirement: Requires another apple variety for pollination
Origin Date: Connecticut 1800's
Storage: 3-6 months
Disease Resistance: Excellent
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.
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Size of tree
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. .
Pruning tip
Basic idea for Pruning: Most fruit trees should be pruned in frost-free periods mid to late winter. (apricots best after bud break) Remove most vertical branches and shorten side branches. Fruiting wood is best on horizontal to 45 degree limbs. Learn more...
Shipping information
Shipping Note: Our fruit trees and berries are delivered to you bareroot during their winter dormancy from January through May depending on USDA zone. Trees are shipped with your invoice and helpful planting directions. There is no minimum quantity required but shipping rate for an individual tree is expensive since UPS/Fed Ex charge a dimensional weight and an additional handling fee to ship a tree. You'll find it's cost effective to consider a handful of trees,vines or our helpful Tree Starter Kits.
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