So what do you think these are?  Would you believe me if I said they are edible fruits?

Russet Apples

Yes these lumpy things are apples and despite their rather ordinary appearance they are actually quite tasty.    Their name refers to the thick uneven texture of the skin which feels like fine sandpaper.  There are many different russet apple cultivars some of which are covered entirely with the ‘russeting’ like these ones.  Others, like Cox’s Orange Pippin, only have the russeting in patches with the rest looking like regular apple skin. 

For the most part all russet apples have disappeared completely from our supermarket shelves.  They have been superseded by more aesthetically pleasing varieties like Granny Smith, Delicious, Jonathan etc…

And whilst I can understand that visually these guys are a bit of a challenge it such a shame as they taste delicious!  These came from a friend’s orchard and I thoroughly enjoyed them picked straight from the tree. 

I am saddened to think that varieties which have been around for hundreds of years (russet apple “leathercoats” are mentioned in Shakespeare’s Henry IV) no longer have prominence in our fruit bowls.  If you are thinking of planting an apple tree don’t bother with a common variety like Delicious or Gala.  You can get them from the supermarket.  Instead search out a supplier of old-world or heritage varieties like the russet apples.  You won’t be disappointed.

PS Don’t forget to check out The Plant Addict Shop while you’re here.     

You’ll find great gift ideas for garden lovers and fellow plant addicts!