Ophir

Why you should be excited

Ophir is an obscure but very nice apple variety from North Carolina that originated early in the 20th century.

The story of Ophir

Here is an apple variety that likely would no longer exist if not for the efforts of southern U.S. apple-hunter Lee Calhoun, whose network of contacts has resulted in many one-of-a-kind varieties being rescued and propagated.

Ophir started out as a seedling planted by a family near their house in North Carolina. Valued by the family both for cooking and fresh eating, the variety was saved from extinction when - many decades later - the wife of this family's church minister learned about the now-elderly tree and alerted Calhoun.

He visited, took cuttings, agreed with them on a name for the variety and then shared cuttings with others... one of which eventually made its way to us.

Ophir Facts

Its origins

Found as a seedling in Ophir, North Carolina, USA, early in the 20th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Crisp and very juicy, with a pleasant, mildly subacid flavour.

Appearance

The medium-sized, roundish apple is mostly red over its greenish background skin colour, with some grayish dots.

When they’re available

Mid-season (usually in mid-September).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Good.

Quality for cider

Unknown, although its juiciness augers well.

Keeping ability

We'll let you know when we find out.