Isaac Newton’s Tree

Why you should be excited

Issac Newton's Tree is as descriptive a name as you'll find: It's the apple that discovered gravity. Sort of.

The story of Isaac Newton's Tree

Those with a less romantic bent might want to refer to this apple by the variety's other name: Flower of Kent.

The rest of us can revel in imagining young Mr. Newton sitting beside a tree in the fall of 1665, watching an apple fall and then realizing there was something important to be learned from this (beyond the fact that the apple was likely now bruised).

Important stuff.

And the apple has value, too. It's a cooker in the traditional English sense, turning into a nicely-flavoured puree when cooked, while reminding us of how the apple has so thoroughly permeated our culture.

Grow it to cook, or just to watch it fall.

Isaac Newton's Tree Facts

Its origins

Uncertain origins somewhere in England; recorded in 1629.

Flavour, aroma, texture

This culinary apple cooks down to a sweet, delicately flavoured puree.

Appearance

The fruit is large and heavily-ribbed, with red mottling over a yellowish background.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in mid-October).

Quality for fresh eating

Mainly used for cooking.

Quality for cooking

Good.

Quality for cider

Not particularly known as a cider apple.

Keeping ability

Good (2 or 3 months when kept refrigerated).