Northern Spy Apple Tree



Northern Spy Apple (Malus domestica 'Northern Spy')
Northern Spy Apple (Malus domestica 'Northern Spy') is a classic American heirloom prized for its tart-sweet flavor, firm flesh, and excellent performance in pies and cider. Originally discovered in New York in the early 1800s, this cultivar remains a favorite for both home gardeners and orchardists looking for a late-season apple with exceptional culinary value and long-term storage potential.
Distinctive Features
'Northern Spy' produces large, round apples with smooth, thin skin that is pale yellow with red striping. The flesh is crisp, juicy, and finely textured, offering a balanced blend of sweet and tangy. It ripens in mid to late October and is known for its long storage life, often keeping through winter with proper refrigeration. The tree itself is moderately vigorous and may take several years to begin bearing, but it rewards patience with dependable harvests of top-quality fruit.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained loam
- Water: Moderate; consistent moisture promotes healthy fruit development
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 7
Ideal Uses
- Focal Point: Beautiful striped fruit and upright growth habit make this a standout in orchard settings
- Cooking: Famous for baking, pies, crisps, and sauces
- Cider Making: Excellent balance of sugar and acidity for fresh or hard cider
- Fresh Eating: Crisp texture and tangy flavor appeal to those who prefer a sharper apple
- Edible Landscapes: Adds visual and culinary interest to large garden spaces
Low Maintenance Care
- Watering: Water deeply during dry periods, especially in the early years
- Pruning: Annual pruning encourages fruiting and airflow
- Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring
- Pollination: Requires a mid- to late-season pollinator for best fruit set
- Mulching: Helps conserve moisture and reduce weed competition
Why Choose Northern Spy Apple?
- Exceptional Flavor: Tart-sweet profile is ideal for cooking and cider
- Heirloom Heritage: A time-tested variety with historical value and reliability
- Long Keeping: Stores well for months with minimal loss of quality
- Culinary Versatility: A top pick for pies, baking, and juicing
- Focal Point: Striking striped apples and late-season harvest add seasonal beauty
Malus domestica 'Northern Spy' is a treasured variety for serious bakers and apple enthusiasts. Its long history, rich flavor, and impressive storage qualities make it a staple in heritage orchards and a worthwhile investment for the home grower.

OUR SIZING
Not sure what 2 inch B&B or 30 Gallon Clump really means? This guide breaks down all our plant size terms so you know exactly what to expect, whether you're ordering online or picking up at our nursery. From caliper measurements to container volumes, we've decoded our system to help you shop with confidence.

Plant Detectives Shipping Guide
Nationwide plant shipping made easy. Learn how we ship trees, shrubs, annuals and perennials. No order too big or too small. Fast, careful, and contractor-friendly.