Rome apple

'Rome' apples for sale at the Newark, Delaware, Farmer's Market

The 'Rome' apple (also known as 'Red Rome', 'Rome Beauty', 'Gillett's Seedling') is a cooking apple originating near Rome Township, Ohio, in the early 19th century. According to the US Apple Association website it is one of the fifteen most popular apple cultivars in the United States. It remains popular for its glossy red fruit and for its utility in cooking.

Characteristics

The 'Rome' is rounded, all red, and very glossy, with a thick skin and firm flesh. It is primarily used for baking, as its flavor develops when cooked, and it holds its shape well. It is commonly described as less desirable as an eating apple because of its subtle flavor that is not as sweet, flashy, or tart as some other varieties. It comes to market in late September and is considered a good keeper. 'Rome' apples are widely grown and available, and are a staple variety in American commerce.

Origins

The story is given that in 1817 Joel Gillet (also spelled "Gillett" or "Gillette" by his descendants) found a tree in a shipment from a nursery that did not match the others; he gave it to his son Alanson, saying, "Here’s a Democrat. You may have this one." His son planted the tree on the banks of the Ohio River, where several years later it was found producing red fruit. His cousin, Horatio Nelson Gillett took cuttings and started a nursery to promote the apple. Originally known as 'Gillett's Seedling', it was renamed the 'Rome Beauty' in 1832 in honor of the township. The original tree survived into the 1850s until it was felled by erosion of the river bank.

Proctorville, Ohio, which lies in the township, styles itself the "Home of the Rome Beauty Apple".

Disease susceptibility

• Scab: high
• Powdery mildew: high
• Cedar-apple rust: high
• Fire blight: high

External links

• National Fruit Collection page