Description Braeburn is a well-loved apple that delivers bold flavor without losing balance. Discovered in New Zealand and grown worldwide, it’s prized for combining sweetness and acidity with a firm, satisfying crunch. The fruit is medium to large with attractive red striping over a green-yellow background. Braeburn’s flesh stays crisp and juicy, making it a versatile apple for fresh eating, baking, and kitchen use. Unlike softer late apples, it holds its texture well after harvest. Ripening late in the season, Braeburn is also valued as a keeper apple. With proper storage, it can be enjoyed well beyond harvest, making it a great choice for growers who want apples that last into winter. Overview Late-season apple with bold sweet-tart flavor Firm, crisp texture and juicy flesh Excellent fresh, baked, or sliced Good keeping quality compared to many apples Partially self-fertile; improved yields with a pollination partner Growing Details Latin Name: Malus domestica ‘Braeburn’Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soilChill Requirement: Approximately 700 hoursHardiness: USDA Zone 4–8Rootstock: M-106 (semi-dwarf)Bearing Age: 1–3 yearsSize at Maturity: Typically maintained at 12–16 ft tall and wide with pruningBloom Time: Mid- to late-seasonRipening Time: Late season; typically October (varies by region)Flowering Group: Group 4 (late-mid season)Pollination: Partially self-fertile; heavier crops with a compatible apple variety planted within 20–30 feetPests & Diseases: Standard apple pest and disease considerations; good airflow and routine care are importantYield: Reliable producer once established Additional Notes Grower’s Insight: Braeburn has become a parent to several modern apple varieties, valued by breeders for its strong flavor balance and firm texture. Regional Insight: Performs especially well in temperate regions with cool nights and a true fall season—conditions that help preserve acidity and enhance flavor. Braeburn’s firm flesh helps it hold texture in baking and slicing. Thinning in heavy crop years improves size and overall eating quality. Explore more apples in our collection: Apple Trees
