Chestnut Crab

NOT IN STOCK – we will have them in 2025.

Good Apple Info Snapshot:

One of the best tasting of the culinary crabs. The definition of big surprises in small packages. We have a number planted for pollination. Our trees held back for a while, then exploded.

Good Apple Info Difficulty Rating:

Easy.

Tree Habit:

Moderately vigorous, compact tree with somewhat weeping branches. Slight tendency to bear best every other year. Likes full sun. Ripens over several weeks. Extended bloomer, good pollenizer.

Apple Color:

yellow and bronze-red skin with some russeting.

Size:

small, about the size of a ping pong ball. Round-flattened.

Flavor:

subacid – outstanding rich, complex flavor. yellowish flesh is finely grained, with a crisp snap to it, though sweetness prevails. Nutty with some finding hints of caramel, nutmeg or vanilla.

Bloom:

Early

Ripe:

September

History:

Throughout the thousands of apple varieties, only a few crabapples have culinary/dessert use. Chestnut Crab is one such crabapple. Don’t let the idea of an edible crabapple mislead you, these few crabapple varieties are exceptional and if the qualities line up with what you’re looking for, they are very much worth the effort in growing.

Developed in 1949 by the University of Minnesota, who also developed Honeycrisp.

Storage:

OK, 1-2 months.

Uses:

fresh eating, cider, baking, jelly, sauce.