Semi Dwarf Apple Tree – ‘James Grieve’

Fruit Type: Apple
Botanical Name: Malus domestica ‘James Grieve’
Fruit Colour: Yellow-green with red stripes or blush
Growth Habit: Semi dwarf deciduous fruit tree grafted onto slow-growing rootstock
Final Height: Approx. 2–3 m
Expected Yield: Approx. 20–40 kg per season once mature
Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pollination: Partially self-fertile; compatible pollinators include Cox’s Orange Pippin, Golden Delicious, Elstar, or Jonathan
Hardiness: Hardy to approx. −25°C; blossoms may be sensitive to late spring frost

‘James Grieve’ is a historic apple cultivar developed in Edinburgh, Scotland in the late 19th century. It is valued for its juicy texture, aromatic character, and versatility as both a dessert and cooking apple.

This variety produces medium-sized apples with a yellow-green base colour often marked by red striping or blush. The flesh is tender, juicy, and aromatic with a refreshing acidity that gradually softens to sweetness as the fruit matures. The apples are suitable for fresh eating as well as cooking, sauces, and baking.

Harvest typically takes place from late August into early September depending on seasonal warmth and local growing conditions. The fruit is best enjoyed fresh or shortly after harvest, as it does not store as long as many later apple varieties.

This apple grows as a semi dwarf fruit tree, remaining more manageable than traditional orchard apples while still producing generous harvests. The controlled size is achieved through grafting onto a slow-growing rootstock, a technique widely used in professional orchards to regulate tree height and support reliable fruit production.

In spring the tree produces abundant white blossoms with soft pink tones that attract bees and other pollinators, creating an attractive ornamental display while supporting fruit set.

Apples thrive in sunny positions with fertile, well-drained soil. A warm, open location supports healthy flowering and proper fruit development.

We select our fruit trees with winter hardiness in mind, ensuring suitability for reliable outdoor cultivation in our climate.

With proper care and placement, ‘James Grieve’ becomes a productive and dependable fruit tree, rewarding gardeners with early-season apples known for their refreshing flavour and versatility in the kitchen.

All trees are sold and delivered as 1–2 year old trees, similar to those supplied to commercial orchards, in jute bags filled with rich Dutch soil, depending on availability and variety.