Malus domestica 'FUJI'

Fuji is a remarkable jabloně of great popularity. It was bred in Fujisaki, Japan, in 1939 as a cross between Red Delicious and Virgina Ralls Genet. Thanks to its qualities it became the top selling and favourite apple of Japan and since late 1960’s when it was introduced to the world it has gained global success, voted one of the four best apples of America in 2003.

Fuji apples are large and attractive. Their tough skin is pale yellow with rich scarlet red stripes, some fruit may be red all over. The taste is very sweet with distinct honey perfume. They are very juicy and crispy, and remain fresh for a long time after you take them out from storage (long shelf life). They store very well and under good conditions they can be kept until the next crop. Picking time is mid to late October in zone 6. They taste very good eaten right off the tree but some may dislike the initial toughness of skin that protects the apple and lengthens its storage life. After a few weeks of storing it becomes crispier and the sweetness matures to a higher level.

Being self-sterile it needs another pollinator for heavy crop, such as Delicious – any colour, Granny Smith, Gala, Golden Reinette, James Grieve, Jonathan, Otava, Pinova, Rubinette, Spartan or Topaz. It grows moderately or slowly, making an upright crown, spreading with age. Pruning is recommended in late winter – reduce long shoots to keep the crown compact. It crops heavily and regularly. Hardy to about -27°C (USDA zone 5).

Last update 23-02-2014