Baldwin Apple
William Butters found this chance apple tree near Wood Hill (close to modern day Wilmington, MA). Research suggests Butters discovered this apple around 1740 making it one of the oldest apples in the new world. A couple people helped to spread this apple, culminating in Col. Loammi Baldwin who propagated it widely; it is from his propagation that the apple gets its name. Read more about this monument here. Originally used as a standard eating apple, it gained popularity for its cider making properties and has been used in cider production for well over 200 years. It is not widely known after a devestating winter in the 1930s wiping out over half the trees.
The apple is small, garnet in color, and hard. The Baldwain's hardness makes it exceptionally easy to ship and resists bruising, pests, and blights. The apple is great for baking as its hardness helps it maintain its shape when cooked. The also makes the Baldwin an excellent storer. Regular pruning is needed to prevent biennialism. Good for growing in cooler and higher climates.
USDA Zone: 4-8
Mature Height: G.41 ~9-12' or 45% of Standard; Dwarf
Sun: Full Sun
Bloom Group: 4, Late Mid Season
Ripening Time: October
Pollination: Tree is Triploid requiring two other apples from pollen groups 3-5 to pollinate but does not pollinate other trees in return.
Cider Profile: Bittersweet Tannin: 1.6g/L, Acid: .31% TA, Sugar: °Brix 12.0