Benoni

Benoni originated in Dedham, Mass around 1830. It was introduced by Edward Metcalf Richards. Richards was a relative of Benoni Fairbanks (1707-1787) for whom the apple was likely named. Benoni was known historically in central and southern Maine, as well as throughout Massachusetts and rest of New England. Old trees can still be found in Maine.

The apple is a Fameuse look-alike. The fruit is smallish, roundish-conic and red-maroon striped and blushed. It's even susceptible to scab like Fameuse. Benoni is somewhat more conic in shape than Fameuse. It ripens a month earlier than Fameuse (late August in central Maine) and it's flesh is yellow. (Fameuse's flesh is "snow" white.)

We recommend it for fresh eating as the taste is a pleasant balance between sweet and mildly tart. It's a perfect size for lunch boxes. It also makes an acceptable sauce.