Peasgood’s Nonsuch

Why you should be excited

Peasgood’s Nonsuch  is a rare bird: an old English apple equally appreciated for cooking and fresh eating.

The story of Peasgood's Nonsuch

How many significant apple varieties were nurtured from seed by a child?

One is Peasgood’s Nonsuch, raised by a little kid living in Grantham, England during the 1850s. The future Mrs. Peasgood’s dedication to this tree is commendable, especially since it became a fairly important apple in England, appreciated for cooking as well as fresh eating and widely regarded as one of the prettiest apples in the country.

Although prone to canker, the tree is resistant to most other common diseases.

A popular garden apple to this day, Peasgood’s Nonsuch is also grown on the Continent, where it is known as Sans Pareille de Peasgood.

Peasgood's Nonsuch Facts

Its origins

Raised from a seed in Lincolnshire, England, 1850s.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Brisk and juicy when eaten fresh. Cooked, it makes a sweet, delicately flavoured puree.

Appearance

Noted in the 19th century for its beauty, due to its attractive orange-red flush and broken red stripes over a green background skin colour.

When they’re available

Mid-season (usually in early September).

Quality for fresh eating

Good.

Quality for cooking

Very good.

Quality for cider

While it's not particularly known for use in cider, we have a hunch that this classic heritage variety is well-suited to cider blends.

Keeping ability

Good (up to 3 months when kept refrigerated).