Mark Kane
Family
Rosaceae
Botanical Name
Malus domestica 'Mcintosh'
Plant Common Name
Apple, McIntosh Apple, Red Eating Apple
General Description
Nearly as well-known and widely-grown as an apple can be, ‘McIntosh’ has been a commercial and backyard favorite since 1798, when the original tree was selected in Canada. The fruits vary in size on the same tree but have in common a deep red skin underlain by green and a firm, tender, white flesh that is juicy, sub-acid, and aromatic. The tree is vigorous, medium-sized and rounded. Bloom and fruiting are heavy. Like all domestic apples it is descended from a species of apple found in southwestern Asia that hybridized with other apple species over centuries. In spring, the tree blooms with sweetly fragrant white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators, all essential to full harvests.
Though the fruits of 'McIntosh' have tough skins, they can be eaten out-of-hand without peeling. They can be baked, producing a sweet, tart result. In pies, because they render a lot of juice, they need a thickener. The fruits also store well, if unbruised.
While this tree prefers full sun and well-drained soil, it will tolerate light shade and bouts of drought. For best fruit production, it must be vigorously pruned and maintained. It is susceptible to apple scab, a leaf disease. Growing it in full sun helps keep the leaves dry which discourages the disease but does not eliminate it. For small yards and small spaces, there are dwarf versions of 'McIntosh.'
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
3 - 8
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Sunset Zone
2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 8, 14, 15, 16
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Plant Type
Fruit
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
12'-25' / 3.7m - 7.6m
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Width
15'-25' / 4.6m - 7.6m
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Bloom Time
Early Spring, Spring
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Native To
Russia/Siberia, Southern Asia, Western Asia
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
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Tolerances
Drought
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Oval/Rounded
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Fall
