Empress Apple Tree

L. Frederic Hough of Rutgers University first crossed this tree in 1969 by pairing the Jonamac x Vista Bells apples. The tree, having a similar shape and fruit appearance to Empire was dubbed the Empress Apple. The tree is a spur bearer and is generally smaller than other apples trees on similar rootstock making this a great tree for small spaces. It is also precocious with evidence suggesting the tree can begin producing fruit at 4-5 years old. 

The flowers exhibit some unusual characteristics; the tree tends to flower later than other apples but is one of the first to ripe, usually a couple days before Paula Red. The apple is medium sized but can be smaller due to its tendency to flower and fruit in clusters. Its skin is nearly 100% cardinal red without surface details. The skin produces a heavy waxy bloom that gives the apple a bright shine. 

Its flesh is light yellow in color and has a sub acid flavor- similar to Jonamac. It's tart but has a pleasant aroma making this a high quality eating apple. Similar to other early apples, the Empress should be eaten soon after harvest and can store for about 1 month under proper conditions. There are no notable disease resistances. 

USDA Zone: 4-8

Mature Height: B.9 ~8-10' tall, Dwarf

Sun: Full Sun

Bloom Group: 4, Late Mid Season

Ripening Time: Late August

Pollination: Required

B.9 Rootstock Characteristics

As of July 20, 2025, we have ceased shipping bare root trees for the Spring 2025 Season. We will resume shipping bare root trees in November of 2025. We will assume all bare root trees order, unless otherwise stated in the product description, will ship in November. Please order accordingly.