James Grieve Apple

Malus James Grieve is an old and traditional apple tree variety produced in Scotland by its namesake, James Grieve, around the turn of the 20th century. 

It is considered a cross of the much-loved Malus Cox’s Orange Pippin or Pott’s Seedling. This lovely tree produces pale pink flowers around April, followed by bright green foliage, which is then the main point of interest until the fruit begins to develop towards the end of the summer. 

The fruit is abundant, medium-sized, and blushed bright red and yellow. It is a little acidic at first, but it gradually becomes more juicy and tasty throughout September. As such, it is most useful as a stewed apple when picked early and can be used as a dessert apple into September when the flesh becomes tastier. 

This apple was once very popular throughout Europe. However, it is easily bruised upon transport and has not survived the transition to long-distance haulage and supermarket demands. That said, it is a tremendously tasty apple that is great for gardens or selling directly to consumers from orchards.

Malus James Grieve is partially self-fertile, meaning a pollination partner is beneficial; this can be another eating or dessert apple or ornamental Crab Apple.

This edible Apple prefers to be planted on moist, free-draining soil. While it is not difficult to grow, it is not as tolerant of heavy clay as other Malus varieties. 

Plant in full sun or no more than partial shade for best results with fruiting.

If you live in an area prone to rabbits or deer, we recommend rabbit guards for these trees.

Mature Height: 3-7m

Common names

James Grieve Apple

Height of tree

3-7m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Rounded

Foliage Colour

Green

Fruit and Nut

Apple

Information Flags

Good for bees

Looks good in

Autumn

Location

Garden

Genus

Malus