Jefferis was introduced by Isaac Jefferies from Newlin Township, Chester County, PA before 1830.  It was recommended for growing in Maine by 1872. We first learned about Jefferis from the late Don Johnson of Herman, ME.  Don was a backyard orchardist who was always on the lookout for interesting varieties.  Jefferis was one of his favorite finds.

The medium-sized, roundish-oblate-conic fruit is blushed and splashed with orangey-red.  The white dots around the stem are elongated and look like a whorl of shooting stars. This dessert apple is crisp, tender, juicy and slightly tart. The Apples of New York calls it, “delicious.”  The fruit has enough tartness to suggest it would also be good for cooking. We recommend that you pull out a chunk of your favorite cheese and a sharp knife and slice them up.