Apple Tree Reinette du Mans - Malus domestica

Malus domestica 'Reinette du Mans' is an old variety that originates from Sarthe. This vigorous apple tree produces medium-sized fruits that can be harvested in October and consumed from December onwards. The smooth and thin skin of the apple has a lovely light yellow-golden hue. It contains juicy flesh with a sweet and slightly acidic flavour, enhanced by a vanilla aroma. The apple is crisp at the beginning of the season and becomes tender over time. It is equally enjoyed as a dessert apple or for cooking, and it can be stored until April if kept under proper conditions.

'Reinette du Mans' withstands temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F). It blooms late, in April and May, which protects it from late frosts and enables it to be grown at higher altitudes. While it is self-fertile, planting it near other varieties such as 'Reine des Reinettes' is recommended for better pollination and higher yields. 'Reinette du Mans' is an easy-to-grow fruit tree that is not demanding in terms of soil type. It shows good resistance to diseases like scab.

Malus domestica is commonly called the common or domestic apple tree. It belongs to the Rosaceae family. It has been present in Europe since ancient times, and is native to the forests of Central Asia. It has excellent hardiness and is probably the most cultivated fruit tree in Northern Europe. There are approximately 20,000 varieties, including around 10,000 of American origin, 2,000 of English origin, and 2,000 of Chinese origin. 

In spring, the apple tree bears white or pinkish-white flowers grouped in corymbs. Apple flowers consist of 5 petals, with these white flowers surrounding a core composed of about 20 stamens. They give rise to spherical fleshy fruits (drupes, from a botanical perspective) that are filled with seeds. Their colour, size, flavour, and shelf life vary depending on the variety. Apples are harvested in late summer and autumn, and can sometimes be stored for a long period in a cellar and consumed until early spring. Apples lend themselves to a wide range of culinary preparations (compotes, pies, jellies), but can also be used to make apple juice or cider. Apple leaves are deciduous and arranged alternately on the branches. Their lamina is ovate and toothed. They have a dark green upper surface and a whitish lower surface that is slightly fuzzy.

Apple trees can be grown in all climates, but they particularly thrive in temperate regions that are moderately humid. They prefer full sun and reasonably moist, fertile soil. Traditionally, they are planted in the heart of an orchard, but can also be grown as standalone trees or even as hedges.

They do not exceed 10m (33ft) in height, with a similar width. This size can be much smaller depending on the vigour of the rootstock used. This fruit tree typically has a tall trunk that naturally spreads out. It comes in various forms (goblet, half-standard, standard, etc.) and can be trained in numerous ways (column, cordon, espalier, etc.).