Malus domestica 'Reinette Grise du Canada' (Apple Tree)

Common name: Grey Canada Reinette Apple

Description: This distinguished French heritage variety, dating from the 18th century, produces medium to large fruit with characteristic grey-brown russet skin that gives the apple its name. Despite its rather plain exterior appearance, this exceptional variety offers outstanding eating quality with firm, creamy-white flesh that delivers complex, nutty flavours with excellent aromatic qualities. The vigorous tree displays masses of white spring blossoms and demonstrates remarkable cold tolerance. Reinette Grise du Canada is particularly prized for its exceptional storage qualities, with the flavour continuing to develop and improve throughout winter storage, making it one of the finest late-keeping varieties.

Other benefits: exceptional heritage variety with historical significance, outstanding storage apple lasting well into spring, flavour improves with storage, excellent cold tolerance

Wildlife attraction: bees, solitary bees, and hoverflies during spring flowering; birds including blackbirds, song thrushes, fieldfares, and redwings feed on windfall fruit

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 5-6m x 4m (vigorous variety, benefits from dwarfing rootstock)

Position: full sun to light shade; excellent cold tolerance makes it suitable for exposed positions and northern locations

Soil pH: adaptable to pH 6.0-7.5; tolerates a wide range of soil conditions including clay soils

Moisture: moderate watering needs; very drought tolerant once established; excellent tolerance of variable weather conditions

Winter hardiness: exceptional cold tolerance to -30°C; excellent choice for Scotland and northern England