Heyer 12 Apple Tree

The Heyer 12 apple cultivar, developed in Saskatchewan and introduced commercially in 1950, is known for its extreme hardiness, thriving in very cold climates (hardy to zone 1)​​. Originating from seeds obtained from Morden, Manitoba, it was selected by Adolph Heyer in Neville, Saskatchewan​​. Heyer 12 apples are medium-sized, measuring 5-6 cm (2-2½ inches) in diameter, and are greenish-yellow to straw-colored when mature​​​​.

The flesh of the Heyer 12 apple is near white, medium coarse, and has a bland, acidic taste. This variety is poor for fresh eating but considered good for pies and sauce, although it oxidizes rapidly and is only fair to good for cooking​​. The apples are best picked before full maturity for storage or culinary uses, as they store only for 1-2 weeks​​.

The tree itself is moderately vigorous with an open spreading habit and wide-angled, strong branching. It's known for being very resistant to fire blight and is an annually productive tree, bearing fruit at a young age​​​​. The Heyer 12 is particularly valued for its suitability in regions where few other apple varieties can survive due to harsh conditions.

Ripens: Early to mid-season
Size: 5-6 cm (2-2½ inches)
Cold hardiness zone: 1-2