Duke of Devonshire

Duke of Devonshire is a richly flavoured russet dessert apple with excellent keeping qualities.

Crisp and firm at harvest, the flesh develops a tender texture and deeper complexity after storage.

Features

• Traditional heritage russet variety of dessert apple
• Firm and crisp when freshly harvested
• Develops a tender, rich texture in storage
• Sweet-sharp flavour with nutty fruit-drop notes
• Excellent keeping qualities
• Moderately vigorous spreading growth habit
• Spur-bearing and productive
  

Origins / Notes

Raised during the 1830s by Wilson, head gardener to the Duke of Devonshire in Cumbria. It became valued as a high-quality keeping apple with flavour that improves significantly after harvest.

Disease Resistance

Very resistant to apple scab.
Some susceptibility to powdery mildew.

Pollination Season

Mid-season

Harvesting Season

Late season, typically October.

Storage

Keeps for up to 5 months in cold storage. Best eating window is from late autumn through winter, when flavour becomes richer and more complex.

Need help choosing your Rootstock?

Please refer to our Rootstock Guide in the first instance.

Need help making your apple tree selection? 

You might want to read our Guide: How to choose the right apple tree for you that gives an overview of all the decisions you'll need to make and tips on making the best ones for you.