History of the Egremont Russet apple

As the name suggests, Egremont Russet probably arose on the estate of Lord Egremont, Petworth. As Joan Morgan writes, “The gardens were famed for their fruit, particularly in the 1800s, when a number of new varieties were raised, but none bearing this name. Nevertheless, head gardener Fred Streeter always maintained it was raised at Petworth.” It was first recorded as a variety in 1872 by nurseryman J Scott of Somerset. Egremont Russet received an RHS Award of Garden Merit in 1993.

It is currently cultivated as part of Brighton Permaculture Trust’s National Collection in Stanmer Park, Brighton. You can see an Egremont Russet apple tree (planted 2009) in Home Farm Orchard, Stanmer Park ( map).

Description of fruit

The Egremont Russet apple has a distinctive flavour, often described as nutty. Morton Shand said it recalled the scent of crushed ferns. An almost smoky, tannic quality develops after keeping, and the flesh becomes drier.

The popularity of this variety came early in the 20th century, after nurseryman George Bunyard praised it as one of “richest late autumn fruits…pretty colour for dessert.”

The distinctive fruit is russet with a slight orange flush and a gold background colour. A medium sized apple, it is flat round in shape. Size medium. Shape flat round. Basin broad, quite deep. Eye large, open; sepals broad based; quite downy. Cavity narrow, shallow; lined russet. The stalk is very short and quite thin. Creamy flesh.

Season of use

The fruit can be picked in early October and stored until December.

Tree habit

The Egremont Russet is a moderately vigorous tree.

Notes on cultivation

The Egremont Russet is resistant to scab and canker, though prone to bitter pit.

Flowering and pollination

Flowering day: F7

How to identify an Egremont Russet apple

Apples can be identified by sending them to the National Fruit Collection at Brogdale or by bringing a sample to Apple Day Brighton, where an expert pomologist will be on hand to identify apples. From each tree, bring three or more ripe fruits and a shoot with representative leaves.

Where to buy an Egremont Russet apple tree

Please contact us for details of our supplier for Sussex apple varieties.