Mrs. Phillimore

Why you should be excited

Mrs. Phillimore is a distinctively-flavoured English fresh-eating apple that originated late in the 19th century.

The story of Mrs. Phillimore

Like its parent, Mother, Mrs. Phillimore is an apple you’re going to want to taste for yourself.

Some people sing its praises, focusing on the sweetness of the flesh and the hint of vanilla that many discern in some examples. Others, especially when it’s grown where it’s hard to get apples ripe, find  Mrs. Phillimore tends to taste flat and insipid.

So, which is it?

Either way, this is an interesting apple due to its cross-Atlantic parentage. Mother is an old U.S. apple, while Cox’s Pomona – yes, sister of the legendary Cox’s Orange Pippin – is very much an English apple, valued both for fresh eating and in baking. 

The combination in Mrs. Phillimore is attractive and tasty when properly ripened.

Mrs. Phillimore Facts

Its origins

Raised from a seed in Newbury, Berkshire, England; recorded in 1896.

Flavour, aroma, texture

In good years, it offers a sweet flavour with a hint of vanilla. In not-so-good years, it can be considerably less inspiring.

Appearance

Attractively flushed and striped with a bright red colour.

When they’re available

Mid-season (usually in early October).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Mainly used for fresh eating.

Keeping ability

Very good (up to 4 or 5 months when kept refrigerated).