Malus domestica 'Red Delicious'

Red Delicious Apple

Malus domestica ‘Red Delicious’ is a fruit tree grown for its glossy deep red apples with crisp, mildly sweet flesh and the classic elongated shape with five distinct lobes at the base. This deciduous apple tree has an upright to rounded habit, white to pink-tinged spring blossoms, and dependable mid- to late-season fruit that is best known for fresh eating and ornamental appeal in the home orchard.

Type: Fruit tree
Mature Size: 15–20' wide x 15–20' high
USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Form: Upright, rounded
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Fertile, well-drained soil / moderate, consistent moisture
Bloom Time / Length: Mid spring / 1–2 weeks
Wildlife: Bees and other pollinators attracted to spring flowers.

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for home orchards and edible landscapes. Fruit typically ripens in late September to October and is valued for fresh eating, attractive color, and reliable production. Plant with another compatible apple variety nearby for best pollination and fruit set.

Care: Plant in full sun with good air circulation. Water regularly during establishment and during dry periods. Prune annually in late winter to maintain structure and fruiting wood, and thin heavy crops to improve fruit size and support more consistent production.

Plant type

Fruit Tree

Height

15-20'

Width

15-20'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Mid Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees, Birds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Fruit

Shape

Rounded, Upright

Bark

Fissured

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No