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All about apples, pears, plums, and cherries - and orchards where they are grown

Black Oxford Apple tree

Owner: Nick

Location:  Oxford, MAINE, United States

Age:Planted in about
Picking:November
Soil:Sand and clay over shale 
Climate at this location:USDA Zone 5
Pruning:Yes
Tree form:Not sure
Height:Between 6ft / 2m and 15ft / 4m
Cropping:Heavy crops
Growth:This tree grows easily here
Herbicides:Un-treated
Pesticides:Chemical treatments
Local pests:Curculio, Coddling Moth

Owner's comments

Local variety from about 1790. Black Oxford's most distinctive characteristic is its rich dark purple skin color. Sometimes the purple looks almost black. A tree full of deep purple Black Oxfords is a sight everyone should see some time in their life. The visual effect is unique and even awe-inspiring. The trees tend to overbear which looks all the more spectacular, but can result in smaller sized fruit. Black Oxford undoubtedly gained its popularity from its excellent storage quality and heavy regular bearing, combined with its unique and desirable flavor. Good eating, cooking and cider apple.