Apple Tree Charłamowskie - Malus domestica

The 'Charłamowskie' Apple Tree is a very old Russian variety, present in Europe for two centuries. The tree has an upright habit and can reach 6m in height, becoming productive fairly quickly. An early variety, its beautiful April blossom produces fruit that can ripen as early as the end of July. The medium-sized apples have a shiny, smooth epidermis with an intimate blend of yellow and red. The white flesh is tender and tangy, moderately juicy. Ideal as an eating apple, it also works well for preserves. In all cases, the fruit should be eaten promptly as it quickly becomes farinose. Plant another apple tree nearby to improve pollination.

The Apple Tree is an important member of the vast family Rosaceae, which hosts most of our other fruit-bearing genera (Peach Trees, Pear Trees, Raspberry Plants...). The genus Malus includes around forty species, including the Common Apple Tree, Malus domestica (synonyms, Malus communis or Malus pumila), as well as non-fruiting species like Ornamental Crabapples. The fruiting Apple Tree was already prized by the Romans who knew of at least 29 different varieties, whereas today, the number of existing varieties is estimated at around 20,000.
The Malus domestica 'Charłamowskie' is a Russian variety that appeared in around 1700 and has since spread across Europe and North America. Popular in the orchards of the northern former Soviet Union in the 20th century, it is known by various synonyms such as Charłamówka, Borowinka, Sierpniówka, Duchess of Oldenburg or Borovitsky. The tree has very vigorous initial growth with an upright habit, then its growing speed slows and it forms a somewhat loose, spherical crown made up of numerous branches that tend to break in the wind. It begins fruiting quite young, producing an abundant to moderately abundant harvest, and sometimes shows a tendency towards biennial bearing. Thus, a year of heavy production may be followed by a leaner year, as the tree recovers from its efforts (fruiting is the most energy-demanding process for plants, even more so than flowering).
In April or even May, the Apple Tree produces a very pretty pinkish-white blossom consisting of small single flowers grouped in clusters. Various pollinating varieties to plant nearby are suitable, such as the 'Jonathan', 'Kronselska', 'Inflancka', 'Idared', 'Fameuse', 'Astrakan Rouge', 'Wagener', 'Winter Banana' or 'Winter Pearmain'. Once pollinated, the flowers will develop into medium-sized, slightly flat fruit. The smooth skin is a shiny greenish-yellow, developing a striped carmine-red blush. The yellowish-white flesh is both delicate and crunchy, juicy and aromatic. Typically ripening in August, these apples should be eaten very quickly either raw or used for preserves as they cannot be stored beyond September.

The 'Charłamowskie' Apple Tree will appeal to enthusiasts of old and unusual varieties. Its poor storage qualities may deter those accustomed to easier varieties. It will find its place in an orchard alongside other heritage varieties such as the famous 'Conference' Pear Tree whose fruit is beloved by gourmets and lends itself to all uses: jams, compotes, pastries, and eaten raw. To enjoy delicious fruit earlier in the season, consider the 'Amsden' Peach Tree whose origins date back over a hundred years, which will delight you with its tangy, juicy, white flesh fruit.