Cortland was one of the first varieties to be developed from the popular McIntosh apple. It is a cross between an old southern variety, Ben Davis, pollinated by McIntosh. However as is often the case with McIntosh crosses, Cortland is very much in the McIntosh mould, with the characteristic crimson red skin and glistening sweet white flesh, although it does have a more rustic appeal than some other Mac crosses.
Cortland is a reliable and heavy-cropping variety. The apples are generally larger than McIntosh, but the sweet perfumed flavor is similar. Fruit quality from markets can be quite variable because Cortland does not keep especially well, but this is easily remedied by growing your own. Although primarily an apple for eating fresh, Cortland is also useful in the kitchen, and cut slices don't brown quickly.
Redcort - shown in our main photo - is a sport of Cortland with similar characteristics but a deeper crimson skin.
Delivery in spring 2026.
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If you do not hear from us by February you can contact us in June to pre-order for the following spring.
Cortland is an easy apple to grow in most cooler climates, with no particular vices.
Advice on fruit tree pollination.
Raised at the New York State Experiment Station, Geneva, 1898. McIntosh x Ben Davis.
