Malus domestica Kosztela - Pommier domestique, Pommier commun

The 'Kosztela' Apple Tree is an ancient variety originating from Poland, likely dating back to the 17th century, still available in many Polish nurseries. It is highly  hardy and disease resistant. The medium-sized fruit is round and flattened, with thick skin, green turning to straw yellow, marked with lenticels. When exposed to sunlight, the fruit may blush slightly. Its white flesh is firm, very sweet, slightly tangy, and juicy. Its taste is unique, highly aromatic, with an intense fragrance blending honeyed and floral notes. However, the fruit bruises easily, and its flesh quickly browns when exposed to air. It is an apple best enjoyed raw but is also excellent when cooked into compotes or used in baking. Self-sterile, it requires the presence of other apple tree varieties for pollination.

The Malus domestica 'Kosztela' is an ancient variety also known as Costel, Costyla, Costylka, Wierzbówka Biała, Wierzbówka Zimowa. With an upright habit and a spreading crown, it forms a tree 5 to 6 m tall with a spread of 4 to 5 m. It tends to branch heavily and requires regular pruning. Its foliage consists of large, ovate, deeply dentate, brownish-green leaves on top and whitish-green underneath. The mid-to-late blossoming  occurs in May, usually protecting it from frost. The apple tree is thus suitable for cultivation in all regions. The flowers are damaged by frost at temperatures below -2 to -3°C. It is considered self-sterile, so the presence of other apple trees flowering at the same time is necessary. Varieties such as Court Pendu, Cox Orange, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Reinette Clochard, Reine des Reinettes, Reinette du Mans, Reinette Etoilée, Royal Gala, Winter Banana, or any other mid-to-late flowering variety are suitable for cross-pollination. Ornamental crab apples, such as Perpetu Evereste and John Downie, blossom abundantly and can serve as excellent pollinators.

The 'Kosztela' Apple Tree is a fairly vigorous variety. The tree begins fruiting four to seven years after planting. Production is annual but alternates between light and abundant harvests. The fruits tend to drop as they near ripeness. Fruiting reaches maturity between mid-September and early October.

The apple can be enjoyed both raw and cooked, in compotes, pastries, paired with cheeses, or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes such as black pudding, pork, or salads. It is also perfect for making juice. Easy to consume, the apple provides great satiety.

The fruits can be stored until January. Storage can be done in a cool, dry place, away from light at temperatures around 8 to 10°C or in an airtight cold room at 1 to 3°C. Apples release ethene, a gas that promotes fruit ripening. To speed up the ripening of other fruits or vegetables, place apples nearby.

Very popular for its fruits, the apple tree will find its perfect place in the garden for the enjoyment of young and old alike. Among a wide range of apple trees, it is easy to find the variety that best suits your preferences.