Anna Plants
Anna" is a variety of apple tree that is well-known for its ability to grow and produce fruit in warmer climates, unlike most apple varieties that require a significant amount of cold weather. Developed in Israel in the 1950s, the Anna apple is especially popular in regions with mild winters, such as parts of California, Florida, and Texas in the United States.
Characteristics of Anna Apple Plants
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Chill Requirements: One of the standout features of the Anna apple is its low chilling requirement, which is only about 200 to 300 hours. This makes it suitable for areas where temperatures rarely drop below 45°F (7°C).
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Size and Growth Habit: Anna apple trees are medium-sized trees that typically reach about 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) in height, although they can be pruned to remain smaller. They have a spreading growth habit with a rounded canopy.
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Fruit: The apples produced by Anna trees are medium to large, with a conical shape. The skin is a bright red blush over a yellow-green background, giving it an appealing appearance. The flesh is crisp, white, and has a sweet-tart flavor, similar to 'Granny Smith' apples.
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Blooming and Harvesting: Anna apple trees bloom early in the season, often as early as January or February in warmer climates. The apples are usually ready to harvest in late spring to early summer, around June or July, depending on the climate.
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Pollination: Anna apple trees are partially self-fertile, meaning they can produce fruit on their own. However, they will yield better with cross-pollination from another apple variety that blooms around the same time, such as the 'Dorset Golden' apple, which also has a low chilling requirement.