Salome

Why you should be excited

Salome is a U.S. apple that scores well in every category except for its small size and boring colouring.

The story of Salome

Here's another apple variety of the many that provoke me to start ranting about industrial agriculture and how it has robbed us of so much.

You might wonder why Salome would not be a commercially successful apple, especially once you learn that it tastes very nice, stores well, grows on healthy and productive trees that resist scab and the entire tree can be picked all at once.

So, excellent quality and convenient for the grower, too.

Ah, but industrial agriculture tells us this apple's colouring is a bit drab and -- sin of sins -- the fruit tends to be on the small side of medium. So Salome doesn't make the grade commercially.

We say phooey to that and are pleased to introduce you to yet another commercial reject well worth trying.

Salome Facts

Its origins

Started from a seed in Ottawa, Illinois, USA, around 1853; introduced in 1884.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The crisp and juicy deep-cream coloured flesh is sweet and has a very nice fruit flavour.

Appearance

Medium-sized or smaller, with pale yellow skin mottled with pinkish-red.

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 (4 months when kept refrigerated).