Wealthy Apple Tree

The Wealthy apple, created in 1868 by Peter Gideon in Minnesota, is an heirloom variety with roots in the Cherry Crabapple and Siberian Crab Apple. Interestingly, recent DNA testing suggests it is actually a cross between Duchess of Oldenburg and Jonathan​. It was one of the first apple cultivars to thrive in Minnesota's harsh climate, a testament to its notable cold hardiness​. The Wealthy apple's name is a tribute to Gideon's wife, Wealthy Gideon.

The Wealthy apple is appreciated for its sweet-tart flavor, laced with notes of honey and raspberry, and a crisp, juicy texture. The skin is tough, and the white flesh is sometimes stained red. This variety is excellent for pies, sauces, and cider, offering a refreshing, sprightly, vinous flavor​. When fully ripe, the apples turn almost red, and they have a good storage life, remaining fresh for 1 to 2 months when refrigerated​.

This variety is adaptable to colder regions, thriving in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 7. However, it's worth noting that the Wealthy apple has poor disease resistance, showing some susceptibility to scab, powdery mildew, fire blight, and is very susceptible to cedar apple rust​.

Ripens: Early August to mid-September
Cold hardiness zone: 3-4