Jazz (apple) Facts for Kids

Jazz apples growing on a tree

The Jazz apple is a super popular and tasty type of apple. It's actually a special kind of apple called a Scifresh cultivar. Think of a cultivar as a specific plant variety that people have grown and chosen because it has certain good qualities. Jazz apples were first grown in New Zealand. They are a mix of two other well-known apples: the Royal Gala and the Braeburn. Both of these "parent" apples also came from New Zealand!

Jazz apples are known for being really sweet, super crunchy, and very juicy. Their skin has a beautiful mix of colors, with shades of red and maroon over a background of green, yellow, and orange. This makes them look as good as they taste!

What Makes a Jazz Apple Special?
- Their Unique Appearance
Where Do Jazz Apples Come From?
- The 'Scifresh' Cultivar
Growing Jazz Apples Around the World
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What Makes a Jazz Apple Special?

Jazz apples are loved for their unique taste and texture. When you bite into one, you'll notice how crisp and firm it is. It has a great balance of sweetness and a little bit of tang, which makes it refreshing. Because they are so firm, they also stay fresh for a long time, which is great for snacks or packing in lunches.

Their Unique Appearance

Jazz apples have a distinctive look. They are usually medium-sized and have a slightly conical (cone-like) shape. The skin is smooth and shiny. The bright red blush often covers most of the apple, but you can still see hints of the green or yellow underneath, especially near the stem.

Where Do Jazz Apples Come From?

The story of the Jazz apple begins in New Zealand. Scientists there, at a place called HortResearch (which is now Plant & Food Research), worked to create this new apple. They carefully crossed the Royal Gala apple with the Braeburn apple. This is a bit like how different dog breeds are mixed to create a new kind of dog. They wanted to combine the best qualities of both apples into one new super apple.

The 'Scifresh' Cultivar

The official name for the plant variety is 'Scifresh'. "Jazz" is actually a brand name, like how a specific type of car might have a fancy brand name. This means that only certain growers who are allowed to, can grow and sell these apples under the "Jazz" name. This helps make sure that every Jazz apple you buy has the same great taste and quality.

Growing Jazz Apples Around the World

Even though Jazz apples started in New Zealand, they are now grown in many different countries. This is because they are so popular! You can find Jazz apple orchards in places like the United States, Europe, Chile, and Australia. Growing them in different parts of the world helps make sure that people can enjoy fresh Jazz apples almost all year round. The growers follow special rules to make sure the apples are always top quality, no matter where they are grown.