Sundowner Apple Tree

The Sundowner apple tree, also known as Cripps Red, is a late-maturing, heat-tolerant variety prized for its dense, sweet, and tangy fruit.

• Origin: Developed in Western Australia in the 1970s by John Cripps, who also created the Pink Lady apple.
• Chill Hours: Approximately 400–600 chill hours, making it suitable for warm to temperate climates.
• Altitude: Performs best at low to mid elevations (up to ~1,800 meters), but can adapt to higher altitudes with sufficient warmth during the growing season.
• Pollination: Partially self-fertile, but benefits from cross-pollination with compatible varieties such as Fuji, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady for better yield.
• Tree Size: Moderate vigor; typically semi-dwarf to standard size, depending on rootstock.
• Harvest Time: Late season — usually harvested in late autumn (around October to November in the Northern Hemisphere).
• Usage of Fruits: Excellent for fresh eating, salads, and desserts; also stores well for months under refrigeration.
• Fruits and Flavor: Medium to large apples with a deep red skin, crisp and juicy texture, and a rich, sweet flavor balanced with slight acidity. Flavor improves after storage.