Stayman Apple
Malus domestica 'Stayman'

Height: 10 to 25 feet
Spread: 10 to 25 feet
Sunlight: Full sun
Hardiness Zone: 4b

Description:
Stayman Apple is a classic heirloom apple known for its rich, sweet-tart, wine-like flavor and firm, crisp texture. Tree size varies by rootstock, with dwarf, semi-dwarf, and standard forms available. As a triploid variety, it needs nearby diploid apple varieties for pollination and reliable fruit set, and it does not effectively pollinate other apple trees. The spring bloom adds ornamental interest, and fruit typically ripens in mid to late fall, with excellent keeping quality for long storage under cool conditions.

Edible Qualities:
Stayman produces medium to large apples with firm, crisp flesh and a sweet-tart flavor that is excellent for fresh eating, baking, cooking, and cider. Fruit is typically harvested in mid to late fall and can store well for several months in cool storage.

Ornamental Features:
Stayman Apple is covered in showy, fragrant white blossoms in spring before the leaves. It has green deciduous foliage through the growing season and develops a classic orchard form that can be shaped with pruning for strong structure and airflow.

Landscape Attributes:
Stayman Apple is a deciduous fruit tree with an upright oval to rounded habit that can be pruned to a more open, spreading form. It has an average texture and works well in home orchards and edible landscapes. Growth is generally moderate to slow depending on rootstock and growing conditions.

This tree requires regular maintenance, including annual pruning in late winter, to promote a strong framework and improve light and air circulation. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristics that may warrant special consideration:
- Requires cross-pollination
- Triploid variety, does not pollinate other apples well

Stayman Apple is recommended for the following landscape applications:
- Orchard and Edible Landscaping
- Accent
- General Garden Use

Planting & Growing:
Stayman Apple typically matures between 10 and 25 feet tall and wide depending on rootstock. Plant in full sun with adequate spacing to maintain airflow through the canopy. For best fruiting, plant with compatible diploid pollinators nearby, such as Gala, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Jonathan, or other midseason bloomers.

This tree performs best in well-drained soil, especially loamy or sandy loam, and responds well to enriched soil with improved production. A slightly acidic soil pH of about 5.0 to 6.8 is ideal. Maintain consistent moisture, avoid standing water, and keep the site open to sunlight and air movement for the healthiest growth and most reliable harvest.