Apple Tree Jacques Lebel - Malus domestica

Malus domestica 'Jacques Lebel' is an old, vigorous, very hardy variety with a large habit and mid-late flowering. It is perfectly suited for altitudes up to 900m (2953ft). It produces a medium to large spherical, flattened apple with smooth, thin, yellow-green skin, striped with carmine pink on the sunny side, with grey lenticels. Its white flesh is tender, moderately crisp, juicy, sweet and acidic. The flesh becomes floury when stored. Harvest begins in early September. The fruits can be consumed immediately, or can be stored until December. The apples are pleasantly acidic and rich in sugar. Its authentic taste makes it an excellent apple for making fritters, pies, and compotes, not to mention its uses in savoury recipes. It is a self-sterile variety that requires the presence of other apple varieties to improve pollination.

Malus domestica, scientifically also known as Malus communis or Malus pumila, is commonly called the common or domestic apple tree. It belongs to the Rosaceae family. It has been present in Europe since ancient times, and is native to the forests of Central Asia. It has excellent hardiness and is probably the most cultivated fruit tree in Northern Europe. There are approximately 20,000 varieties, including around 10,000 of American origin, 2,000 of English origin, and 2,000 of Chinese origin. 

Malus domestica 'Jacques Lebel' is an old variety, obtained from a seedling in 1825 by Jacques Lebel, a nurseryman in Amiens. In 1849, it was propagated by the André Leroy Nurseries (Angers), and then exported to Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, England, and the United States. 

Malus domestica 'Jacques Lebel' is a large tree with a spreading habit and a wide frame that can reach 8m (26ft) in diameter. Its trailing form is ideal as a free-standing tree. Its foliage consists of large, ovate leaves that are dark green on top, pale green below, and deeply dentate. Its mid-late flowering occurs at the end of April, which generally protects it from frost. The white-pink flowers are destroyed by frost at temperatures from -2 to -3°C (28.4 to 26.6°F). It is a hardy tree that can withstand temperatures around -30°C (-22°F), making it suitable for cultivation in most regions, especially at altitudes up to 900m (2953ft). It is a triploid variety, which, despite its vigour, produces poor-quality pollen, making it relatively weak in pollinating other apple varieties. It produces apples with few viable seeds. It is said to be self-sterile, which is why the presence of apple trees that flower at the same time is necessary. Varieties such as 'Double Belle Fleur', 'Reine des Reinettes', 'Transparente blanche', 'Transparente de Croncels' or any other mid-late flowering variety are suitable for cross-pollination. Ornamental apple trees, such as 'Perpetu Evereste' and 'John Downie', flower abundantly and can be excellent pollinators.

Malus domestica 'Jacques Lebel' is susceptible to scab and woolly aphids, and moderately susceptible to canker. 

Apples can be consumed both raw and cooked. Use them in compotes, in pastries, or with cheeses. They work well with savoury dishes. They are also perfect for making juice. They are rich in carbohydrates and fructose, and are invigorating and rehydrating. They boast a high content of vitamins A, B, C, and E, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. The fruits can be stored throughout winter, even until March. Store in a cool, clean place, protected from light, at a temperature of around 8 to 10°C (46.4 to 50°F), or in a cold room, sealed off from outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C (33.8 to 37.4°F). Apples release ethylene, a gas that promotes fruit ripening. To accelerate the ripening of your other fruits or vegetables, place your apples next to them

Apple trees are some of the most popular fruit trees for our gardens. There is such a wide range of apple trees that it is easy to find the right one for you.