Contents
Description
Malus Domestica Cox’s Orange Pippin, also known as Cox’s Orange Pippin, is a classic apple cultivar that originated in England during the 19th century. It is highly regarded for its unique flavor, which is a balance of sweetness and acidity with hints of pear, honey, and spices. The fruit is medium-sized, with a round to oblong shape and a yellow-green base color that is flushed with red and orange stripes. The flesh is creamy white and dense, and it has a crisp and juicy texture that makes it perfect for eating fresh or using in baking and cooking.
Taxonomy
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eukarya | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Rosales | Rosaceae | Malus |
Appearance
Cox’s Orange Pippin apple tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 5-6 meters tall. It has a spreading habit and a moderate growth rate. The leaves are oval-shaped, with serrated edges and a bright green color that turns yellow in the fall. The flowers are white or pink and appear in clusters in late spring. The fruit ripens in the fall, with a harvest period that usually runs from September to October. The skin is firm and smooth, with a bright yellow-green color that is overlaid with a red-orange blush. The flesh is juicy, crisp, and creamy-white, with a sweet, aromatic flavor that has hints of pear, honey, and spices.
Care Guide
Growing Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees requires moderate care and attention. Here are some tips:
Water: Water regularly during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. Make sure the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in midsummer to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
Soil: Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight: These trees need full sun exposure to thrive and produce abundant fruit.
Hardiness Zones: Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all apple cultivars, Cox’s Orange Pippin is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Some of the most common ones include:
Codling Moth: This pest lays its eggs on the fruit, which hatch into larvae that feed on the flesh, leaving behind brown, mushy areas. Control measures include using pheromone traps, applying insecticides, and practicing good sanitation.
Apple Scab: This fungal disease causes dark, velvety spots on the leaves and fruit, which can lead to defoliation and reduced yield. Control measures include using disease-resistant cultivars, applying fungicides, and removing infected plant debris.
Fruit Rots: This disease is caused by various fungi that attack the fruit, causing it to rot and become soft and mushy. Control measures include improving air circulation, practicing good sanitation, and applying fungicides.
Habitat
Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees grow best in temperate regions with cool summers and mild winters. They thrive in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and full sun exposure. They can be grown in orchards, home gardens, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q1: How long does it take for Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees to bear fruit?
A1: Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees typically start to bear fruit 3 to 5 years after planting.
Q2: Can Cox’s Orange Pippin be grown in containers?
A2: Yes, Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees can be grown in containers, but they require regular pruning and care to maintain their size and shape.
Q3: What is the best time to prune Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees?
A3: The best time to prune Cox’s Orange Pippin apple trees is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q4: How long does it take for Cox’s Orange Pippin apples to ripen?
A4: Cox’s Orange Pippin apples usually ripen in the fall, with a harvest period that runs from September to October.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Cox’s Orange Pippin:
- Granny Smith
- Golden Delicious
- Red Delicious
- Fuji
- Braeburn
References
- University of Illinois Extension. (2021). Cox’s Orange Pippin Apple. Retrieved from https://extension.illinois.edu/apples/varieties/coxs-orange-pippin.cfm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Malus Domestica ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a948
- RHS. (2021). Apple ‘Cox’s Orange Pippin’ (S). Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1284/Malus-domestica-Cox-s-Orange-Pippin-(S)/Details
