A classic American dessert apple with deep crimson skin, a tall five-lobed shape and mild, sweet, soft flesh. Best eaten fresh and needs a pollinator such as Golden Delicious or Granny Smith.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 4 m H × 3.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Red Delicious Apple
Botanically, Malus domestica 'Red Delicious' is a moderate-growing fruiting tree in the Rosaceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 3.5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. White and pink flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Red Delicious Apple
Red Delicious Apple suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Red Delicious Apple does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Red Delicious Apple does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
Pruning & care
Prune Red Delicious Apple after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a moderate maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Red Delicious Apple in the garden
Red Delicious Apple earns its place for edible harvests and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Red Delicious Apple with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Red Delicious Apple
Plant Sale lists Red Delicious Apple as bare-root stock, advanced specimens and potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
