Solcata Apple

APPLES / COLLECTION ORCHARD

This plant was recovered in the area of Citta’ di Castello (Perugia). It is a very vigorous and chance ecotype that was propagated by some farmer in the area. Given its toughness it is suitable for cultivation in high hills areas. The tree is extremely vigorous, very hardy and grows rapidly; its spreading behavior and crown give it a high aesthetic value. The fruit is large, cylindrical and with regular grooves resembling a pepper. Its calyx is quite ridged; its stem is long and not too thick and inserted in a deep and acute cavity. The skin is thick, waxy and a yellow-green colour turning golden yellow at ripening time. The flesh is white, not juicy and not too flavorful although aromatic. It is harvested in October but despite its waxy skin it does not store well in the fruit-house. This variety is interesting for its vigor and more so for its ornamental value than for its fruit, which is very beautiful but not very tasty. When burned, its skin can be used to perfume the house; we may also rediscover the use of its wood, which was once used to make picture frames.