Brownlee’s Russet Apple Trees

• High Sugar
• Hardy to zone 5

Brownlees’ Russet was a popular russet apple in the Victorian era, originating in Hertfordshire in the 1840’s. It was rated by the Victorian writer Hogg as an excellent late apple, suitable for dessert and cooking.

Brownlees’ Russet is noticeably different from the mainstream russet varieties characterised by Egremont Russet.  There is clearly something a bit stronger in its make-up – it recalls another, older, russet variety, Ashmeads Kernel in this respect.  The flavour is more robust with pear-drop overtones, and it is a far better keeper than many other russets, indeed it is probably at its best when stored for 2-3 months.  However it shares some of the other typical characteristics of russet apples – it is easy to grow and has good disease resistance.

Trees are moderately vigorous, and cropping is generally good. It is a reliable late apple. Brownlee’s Russet has strikingly attractive blossoms much favoured by the Edwardians, with carmine buds opening to pink.