A very late-season Western Australian apple (Cripps Red), sibling of Pink Lady, with deep red skin and firm, sweet-tart, long-keeping flesh. Needs a long warm autumn and a pollinator such as Gala 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 Sundowner Apple
Botanically, Malus domestica 'Sundowner' 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 Sundowner Apple
Sundowner Apple suits warm-temperate, Mediterranean and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Sundowner 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
Sundowner Apple does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Sundowner 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 Sundowner Apple in the garden
Sundowner Apple earns its place for edible harvests and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Sundowner Apple with species that also favour regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Buying Sundowner Apple
Plant Sale lists Sundowner Apple as bare-root stock, advanced specimens and potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
