Beauty of Bath

Cross section of Beauty of Bath (LA 63A), National Fruit Collection (acc. 1966-146)

Malus - Schoener aus Bath - inside

Beauty of Bath is a variety of apple that was first cultivated in England in the 19th century. Known for its early ripening, the Beauty of Bath apple has been a popular choice in English gardens and orchards for its taste and early availability in the season. This article provides an overview of the Beauty of Bath apple, including its history, characteristics, and cultivation.

History

The Beauty of Bath apple originated in the Bath region of England and was first introduced in 1864. It was discovered as a chance seedling by a market gardener. The variety quickly gained popularity due to its early ripening, often ready to harvest in late July or early August, which was much earlier than most other apple varieties available at the time.

Characteristics

The Beauty of Bath apple is small to medium in size with a somewhat irregular shape. The skin of the apple is thin and delicate, making it somewhat prone to bruising. The color is a striking combination of red flushes over a yellow or greenish-yellow background. One of the distinctive features of this apple is its sharp, refreshing taste, which is a balance of sweetness and acidity. The flesh is white, juicy, and crisp.

Due to its early ripening, the Beauty of Bath is considered a summer apple. However, it does not store well and is best eaten fresh off the tree. This characteristic, along with its delicate skin, has led to a decline in commercial cultivation, with the variety now more commonly found in private gardens and heritage orchards.

Cultivation

The Beauty of Bath apple tree is known for its vigorous growth and can be grown in a range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It is relatively easy to cultivate but does require some care to manage its susceptibility to certain pests and diseases, such as apple scab and codling moth.

Pruning is important for the Beauty of Bath apple tree, as it helps to maintain the tree's shape and promotes healthy growth. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased wood and to thin out overcrowded branches.

Culinary Uses

The Beauty of Bath apple is best enjoyed fresh due to its crisp texture and refreshing taste. It is an excellent choice for salads, snacks, and fruit platters. However, due to its early ripening and relatively short shelf life, it is less commonly used in cooking or baking.

Current Status

While the Beauty of Bath apple is not as widely grown commercially as it once was, it remains a favorite among apple enthusiasts and heritage orchardists. Efforts to preserve this variety are important for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring that future generations can enjoy its unique taste and historical significance.