Winston (apple) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Malus pumila 'Winston' |
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| Genus | Malus |
| Species | Malus pumila |
| Hybrid parentage | 'Cox's Orange Pippin' x 'Worcester Pearmain' |
| Cultivar | 'Winston' |
| Origin |  United Kingdom |
The Winston apple is a popular type of apple from England. It was first called 'Winter King' because it was available in winter. Later, around 1944 or 1945, it was renamed 'Winston'. This new name honored Winston Churchill, who was a famous leader in England during World War II.
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What is the Winston Apple?
The Winston apple is a special kind of apple called a cultivar. A cultivar is a plant that has been grown by people to have certain good qualities. The Winston apple was created in Berkshire, England.
It was made by crossing two other well-known apple types: the Cox's Orange Pippin and the Worcester Pearmain. Scientists wanted to combine the best features of both parents into one new apple.
How the Winston Apple Was Created
The Winston apple got its amazing taste from the Cox's Orange Pippin. This means it has a firm, white flesh that is juicy and a little bit tart. But it also has a good balance of sweetness and a nice smell.
From the Worcester Pearmain, the Winston apple inherited its strong growing habits. It is easy to grow and produces a lot of apples reliably. It is also good at resisting many common plant diseases.
What Makes Winston Apples Special?
Appearance and Storage
Winston apples usually have a cone shape and are medium-sized. Their skin is mostly green, but it has a lot of bright red color on top.
One great thing about Winston apples is how well they store. If you pick them in December, they can stay fresh until April. Their taste can even get better after they have been stored for a while.
Self-Pollination
Most apple trees need pollen from another apple tree to make fruit. But the Winston apple is special because it is "self-fertile." This means it can make fruit using its own pollen. It does not always need another apple tree nearby to help it grow apples.
Awards and Recognition
The Winston apple is highly regarded by gardeners. In 1993, it received the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. This award means it is an excellent plant for growing in gardens.
