Malus domestica 'Melrose' Dwarf

Melrose Dwarf Apple

Malus domestica ‘Melrose’ is a dwarf fruit tree grown for its large, flattened apples with yellow-green skin flushed dark red, firm creamy-white flesh, and a rich sweet-tart flavor. This deciduous apple tree has a rounded to slightly spreading habit, white spring blossoms, and late-season fruit that is especially valued for fresh eating, baking, and storage. ‘Melrose’ was developed in Ohio from ‘Jonathan’ × ‘Red Delicious’ and is often noted as the Ohio state apple.

Type: Dwarf fruit tree
Mature Size: 8–10' wide x 8–10' high
USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Form: Rounded, slightly spreading
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 is usually harvested in early to mid October and is known for keeping well in storage, with flavor often improving after harvest. ‘Melrose’ is not self-fertile, so it needs a compatible apple nearby for pollination and fruit set.

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

Plant type

Fruit Tree

Height

12'

Width

15'-25'

Hardiness zones

4–7

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees, Birds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Fruit

Shape

Rounded, Spreading

Bark

Fissured

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No