Columnar Apple Tree Vaux Le Vicomte - Georges Delbard

The columnar habit and compact development of the 'Vaux Le Vicomte Delcosu' apple tree are well suited to gardens with limited space, container cultivation on balconies or terraces, or the creation of a small fruit hedge. It is a productive, hardy, and vigorous variety, highly resistant to scab and mildew. The 'Vaux Le Vicomte' apple is tasty, with a round shape and large size, and bright red skin with fairly prominent yellow lenticels. Its crispy, whitish, firm flesh is juicy, fruity, and sweet. From late September, the fruits can be eaten straight from the tree and can be stored until November. With a high sugar content, it is a refreshing apple to bite into. Excellent in pies, compotes, or pan-fried, the 'Vaux Le Vicomte' is also highly appreciated in savoury recipes. The presence of other apple tree varieties nearby will improve pollination and therefore production.    

Malus domestica, also known scientifically as Malus communis or Malus pumila, is commonly called the Common or Domestic Apple tree. It belongs to the Rosaceae family. Present in France and Europe since ancient times, it is a fruit tree native to the forests of Central Asia. It is highly hardy and is probably the most cultivated fruit tree in Northern Europe. There are about 20,000 varieties, including approximately 10,000 of American origin, 2,000 of English origin, and 2,000 of Chinese origin. The 'Vaux Le Vicomte'® Delcosu Malus domestica is a recent creation from the Georges Delbard Nurseries in France.

Elegant, the 'Vaux Le Vicomte' Apple tree is a small tree with a columnar and compact habit that reaches a height of 2 to 3 metres (7 to 10 feet) and a width of approximately 40 to 60cm (16 to 24in) at maturity. Its foliage is composed of large, ovate, dark green leaves on the upper side and whitish green on the lower side, with deeply toothed edges. The white flowering occurs in April-May, which generally protects it from frost. The flowers are destroyed by frost at temperatures below -2 to -3°C. The 'Vaux Le Vicomte Delcosu' Columnar Apple tree is a hardy plant that can withstand temperatures around -30°C, making it suitable for cultivation in all regions. It is a partially self-fertile variety, but the presence of other apple tree varieties nearby will improve pollination and therefore production. Columnar Apple tree varieties such as 'Amboise'®, 'Azay-Le-Rideau'®, 'Ballerina'® 'Polka', 'Ballerina® Maypole', 'Ballerina® Valse', 'Cheverny'®, 'Chenonceau'®, 'Chinon'®, 'Courson'®, 'Pomfital', 'Rhapsodie'®, 'Vaux Le Vicomte'®, 'Versailles'®, and 'Villandry'® are suitable for cross-pollination. The 'Reine des Reinettes' apple tree can also fulfill this function. Ornamental apple trees such as 'Evereste' and 'John Downie' flower abundantly and can be excellent pollinators.

The 'Vaux Le Vicomte' Apple tree is a vigorous variety with rapid and abundant fruiting. The fruiting, uniform and plentiful, begins in late September and extends until October. The apple can be consumed raw or cooked, in compotes, pastries, paired with cheeses, or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes such as black pudding, pork, or salads. Easy to consume, the apple provides a feeling of satiety. Rich in carbohydrates and fructose, it is invigorating and rehydrating. Its high content of vitamins A, B, C, and E, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre makes the apple a health asset. The fruits can be stored until February. Storage can be done in a cool, dry place, protected from light, at a temperature around 8 to 10°C, or in a cold room, sealed off from outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C. The apple releases ethylene, a gas that promotes fruit ripening. To accelerate the ripening of other fruits or vegetables, place your apples next to them.

Very popular for its fruits, the apple tree finds its place in the garden to the delight of young and old. Among a wide range of apple trees varieties, it is easy to find the variety that best suits one's desires.