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Duck’s Bill

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History of the Duck’s Bill apple

The Duck’s Bill was introduced by Fred Streeter, Head Gardner at Petworth House in 1937.

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

Description of fruit

The apple is distinctively ribbed and flat sided, which gives it its name. Tall conic with prominent ribs on the body and at apex. The skin is yellow, streaked pink with a red flush. There are russet dots. There are other apples such as Winter Pearmain which have a similar appearance. Quite rich tasting, sweet, but with plenty of acidity.

Season of use

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

Tree habit

The tree is medium vigour and very upright.

Flowering and pollination

Flowering day: F16

How to identify your apple tree

The National Fruit Collection at Brogdale and the RHS both have fruit identification services.

You can have a go at identifying the fruit yourself using the Fruit ID website.

In Autumn, Apple Day events around the UK sometimes have an expert on hand to identify apples. You’ll need to bring three or more ripe fruits and a shoot with representative leaves.

Where to buy a Sussex apple tree

At Brighton Permaculture Trust we believe it is essential to preserve the diversity of apple varieties around the world.  Some of the Sussex varieties were nearly extinct a few decades ago, but we are promoting them and planting them whenever we can. Many delicious Sussex varieties are still rarely grown.

You can find fruit tree nurseries that stock some of the Sussex varieties, and some nurseries will graft you a tree if they don’t keep that variety in stock. To find suppliers, please try the Tree Nursery Directoryand The Orchard Network’s Sussex Directory.

More Sussex Apples

All Sussex Apple Varieties
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