Apple (Malus) Herefordshire Russet® MM106

A modern russet with an excellent Cox-like flavour, 'Herefordshire Russet' is bred from 'Cox' and 'Golden Delicious' (or 'Idared', depending on source) and has quickly become a favourite for anyone who loves that classic nutty, aromatic taste. Grafted onto the semi-vigorous MM106 rootstock, it makes a robust, well-anchored tree reaching around 3.5–4m in height and spread, suited to larger gardens or orchards.

Pale pink blossom appears in May, followed by golden, extensively russeted fruit with crisp, juicy cream flesh and a rich, sweet, nutty flavour. Harvest in October, with the fruit storing well through to Christmas or into January.

'Herefordshire Russet' is partially self-fertile and will produce a decent crop alone, though it fruits best with a pollination partner in the same period (Group 3) or an adjacent group (2 or 4). It's a vigorous, reliable cropper — strong growth often means the fruit needs thinning to reach a good size. MM106 tolerates a wide range of soils and produces a sturdy tree that generally doesn't need permanent staking once established, though it does take a little longer to come into fruit than more dwarfing rootstocks — usually 4–5 years.

Plant in full sun in moist, well-drained soil, and prune each winter to maintain an open, productive shape. As with all apple varieties, the pips contain small amounts of naturally occurring toxins, so they're best removed if the fruit is being used for cooking with children in mind.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch. Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.