The Spartan apple was one of the first formally bred in a scientific fruit breeding program, released in 1936. The work of Dr. R. C. Palmer this cultivar was originally thought to be a cross between Newtown Pippin and MacIntosh. With the modern genetic analysis available it has been shown there is no Pippin genetics so the original cross pollination parentage is a mystery.
Highly popular originally it is still grown in its homeland of B.C. Canada among other places. It has become a less well recognized apple among the newer varieties such as Fuji, Gala, Pink Lady, Jazz, Sonya and others. Spartans are firm with snow white flesh, the crisp yet dense texture yields a hearty hand fruit with a good sweet/tart balance. It is good in cooking applications as well. These apples are available right now and should continue for a while. Seek this fruit out and buy it when you can. The good work done by the researchers at the Summerland B.C. Ag station over 70 years ago will not go unrecognized as you appreciate this excellent cultivar selection.
