Arkansas Black

Why you should be excited

Arkansas Black is one of the more distinctive apples out there, starting with its dark, dark skin colour.

The story of Arkansas Black

If you’re keen on apples that are anything but bland and middle of the road, then you can’t help but be interested in Arkansas Black.

The most obvious reason is this southern U.S. apple’s skin colour, which is a red so deep that it tends to verge on – you guessed it – black.

But that’s not all that stands out with this variety.

Arkansas Black is also an incredibly hard apple, although less so after it’s been stored for a while. And speaking of storage, it’s also remarkable for its ability to keep well for many months.

So, all in all, this is an apple that’s distinctive and also of high quality. Definitely worth checking out.

Arkansas Black Facts

Its origins

Discovered near Bentonville, Arkansas, USA, around 1870.

Flavour, aroma, texture

A hard apple (especially when first picked) with fine-grained yellow flesh that's fairly juicy and nicely subacid.

Appearance

Medium-sized, round. skin almost completely covered with dark red, verging on black. Hence the name.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Good (and also for cider).

Quality for cider

Has a long history and strong reputation in U.S. ciders.

Keeping ability

Excellent (5 months or more when kept refrigerated).