Red Blaze

Probably originated in Mercer, Maine, before 1900. We received scionwood of this extremely rare variety from Francis Fenton who had it growing on one branch of a tree. He had found it years ago on an old farm a few miles from his Sandy River Orchard in Mercer.

Now we may have one of the only trees anywhere. We have been propagating more each spring. We always wondered how it got its name. Then we cut one open and noticed a very small red scallop- shaped stain in the flesh by the flower-end. There it was—the red blaze!

We recommend it for fresh eating, although some of the OOAL crew like it better peeled. You might also find it good for the kitchen. In 2010 Red Blaze was still tasty on December 11th.