Crimson King (apple)
Crimson King, also known as John Toucher's or the Bewley Down Pippin, is a traditional cider apple cultivar originating in Somerset.
| 'Crimson King' | |
|---|---|
| Species | Malus domestica |
| Breeder | John Toucher, Chardstock |
| Origin |  England, 19th c. |
Origin
The cultivar was raised in the late 19th century by John Toucher of Bewley Down, Chardstock.[1] It was first widely planted in western Somerset, and subsequently in Devon and other West Country cider producing areas.[2]
Characteristics
The fruit is generally medium to large, variable in shape, and red-skinned.[2] In the standard classification of cider apples Crimson King is a (medium to full) "sharp", being high in acidity but low in tannin.
Crimson King is triploid and mid to late bearing. It makes a vigorous, spreading tree and was reputed to bear heavy crops without much tendency to biennial cropping,[1] although it is fairly prone to apple scab.
References
- Copas, L. Somerset Pomona, 2001, p 34
- Annual Report of the Long Ashton Research Station, 1964, p. 55
External links
- "Crimson King", National Fruit Collection, University of Reading and Brogdale Collections, retrieved 18 October 2015
