Apple tree (Malus domestica) ZANE

Columnar Apple (Malus domestica) 'Zane'

A very decorative Latvian variety with strong growth and tasty fruits.

'Zane' is a Latvian columnar apple variety that is highly valued not only for its fruits but also for its very decorative appearance. It is distinguished by its large, long leaves and a sturdy trunk that does not require support. The fruits are large and attractive, light yellow with a red blush and a white bloom. The flesh is firm, juicy, and aromatic, with a pleasant sweet-tart taste. Thanks to its good frost hardiness and resistance, it is a suitable choice for gardeners looking for an ornamental and productive tree.

Main advantages of the variety:

• Very decorative appearance: Beautiful large leaves and attractive fruits.
• Sturdy columnar growth: Does not need support, even on weaker rootstocks.
• Large and tasty fruits: Firm, juicy fruits with an aromatic sweet-tart flavor.
• Good frost hardiness and disease resistance.
• Early entry into bearing.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: Latvia, Dobele
• Breeder: R. Dumbravs
• Cross: KV-11 × ‘Melba’
• Year of registration: 2011

Variety Characteristics

Tree

Growth is columnar, medium-strong, and sturdy. Its appearance is very decorative thanks to its large leaves. It comes into bearing early and yields well, but has a slight tendency towards biennial bearing. It is cross-pollinated.

Fruit

• Size: Large.
• Shape: Round.
• Appearance: Very beautiful, smooth, and uniform. The base color is light yellow to white, with a red blush covering 50–75% of the surface, and a white bloom.
• Flesh: White, medium-firm, juicy.
• Taste: Tasty, aromatic, sweet-tart.

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost hardiness: Good. The flowers also have good frost resistance.
• Scab: Medium resistance.
• Powdery Mildew: Good resistance.
• Canker: Has not been observed.

Growing Recommendations

• Suitability: Recommended for home gardens.
• Rootstock: Medium-vigor rootstocks (e.g., MM106, B.118) are recommended.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: First half of September.
• Storability: Does not lose firmness during storage, but loses acidity.