Vintage Virginia Apples

BLACK TWIG is an early 19th century Tennessee apple that was introduced about 1830 as a seedling on the farm of Major Rankin Toole near Fayetteville, Tennessee. It became one of the popular dessert varieties in the 19th and early 20th century in Central Virginia orchards. The coloration varies, but it is usually yellow, washed and striped a dark red or mostly red. Often some green background will show through the overlay colors. The yellowish flesh is juicy, breaking and aromatic. It is medium to large in size, and exhibits some resistance to pests and diseases. An excellent keeper, it must be stored to reach peak flavor. The tree growth is dense and drooping. Ripens in October.