The Rome apple is a cooking apple

Apple

The apple is the pomaceous fruit of the apple tree, species Malus domestica in the rose family . It is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits, and the most widely known of the many members of genus Malus that are used by humans. Apple grow on small, deciduous trees that blossom in the spring...

 originating near Rome Township, Ohio

Rome Township, Lawrence County, Ohio

Rome Township is one of the fourteen townships of Lawrence County, Ohio, United States. The 2000 census found 8,694 people in the township, 8,366 of whom lived in the unincorporated portions of the township.-Geography:...

 in the early 19th century. It remains popular for its glossy red fruit and for its utility in cooking.

Characteristics

The Rome apple is rounded, all red, and very glossy, with a thick skin and firm flesh. It is primarily used for baking, as its flavor develops when cooked, and it holds its shape well. It is less desirable as an eating apple, as it is not as sweet as other varieties. It comes to market in late September and is considered a good keeper.

Romes are widely grown and available, and are a staple variety in American commerce.

Origins

The story is given that in 1817 Joel Gillet (also spelled "Gillett" or "Gillette" by his descendants) found a tree in a shipment from a nursery that did not match the others; he gave it to his son Alanson, saying, "Here’s a Democrat. You may have this one." His son planted the tree on the banks of the Ohio River, where several years later it was found producing red fruit. His cousin, Horatio Nelson or (H. N.) Gillett took cuttings and started a nursery to promote the apple. Originally known as "Gillett's Seedling", it was renamed the "Rome Beauty" in 1832 in honor of the township. The original tree survived into the 1850s until it was felled by erosion of the river bank.

Proctorville, Ohio

Proctorville, Ohio

Proctorville is a village in Lawrence County, Ohio, United States, along the Ohio River. The population was 620 at the 2000 census. The East End Bridge connects Proctorville to Huntington, West Virginia across the Ohio River....

, which lies in the township, styles itself the "Home of the Rome Beauty Apple".

Disease susceptibility

• Scab: high
• Powdery mildew: high
• Cedar apple rust: high
• Fire blight: high

External links