Malus domestica Apple - Jonathan

Jonathan Apple is a classic heritage variety prized for its bright red skin, crisp white flesh and lively sweet-tart flavour. Excellent for fresh eating, cooking and juicing, it produces reliable crops in cool to temperate regions of Australia. Fruit typically ripens from late summer to early autumn, developing its best colour and flavour where nights are cool.

At maturity, Jonathan forms a small to medium deciduous tree approximately 3–4 metres high and 3 metres wide, depending on rootstock and pruning. It suits backyard orchards, espalier, or open lawn plantings. The spring blossom is soft pink to white, providing ornamental value before fruit set.

Grow in full sun in well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost. Apples require winter chill, making them ideal for Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia’s cooler districts and elevated areas of NSW. Water regularly during fruit development, mulch well, and apply a balanced fertiliser in late winter and again after flowering. Prune in winter to maintain an open vase shape and encourage airflow.

Suitable companion plants include Lavender for attracting pollinators, Garlic to help deter pests, Borage to improve pollination and soil health, and Chives as a natural companion underplanting.