Malus domestica 'Starking' (Apple Tree)

Common name: Starking Delicious Apple

Description: This American variety is a red sport of the famous Red Delicious, producing large, conical fruit with intense dark red colouring and the characteristic five-pointed crown. Starking offers sweet, mild-flavoured flesh with a distinctive aroma. The tree is moderately vigorous with attractive white spring blossoms that provide good pollination value. Whilst the eating quality may not match some modern varieties, Starking remains popular for its striking appearance and reliable cropping. The fruit stores reasonably well and makes an attractive addition to fruit bowls and displays.

Other benefits: striking appearance with intense red colouring, reliable cropping, attractive display fruit

Wildlife attraction: bees, hoverflies, and other pollinators during flowering; birds such as blackbirds, redwings, and thrushes enjoy windfall apples

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 4m x 3.5m (on semi-dwarfing rootstock)

Position: full sun preferred; benefits from shelter from strong winds

Soil pH: adaptable to pH 6.0-7.5; performs well in most garden soils

Moisture: consistent moisture during growing season; well-drained soil important

Winter hardiness: good cold tolerance to -20°C; suitable for most UK regions