Dolgo (crab-apple)

Why you should be excited

Dolgo is a multi-talented crab-apple good for pollinating apple trees, making jelly and even fresh eating.

The story of Dolgo

Crab-apples are just a bit different from other apples. Okay, the tiny little super-sour crabs are a lot different from your average eating apple. Almost an entirely different fruit, in fact.

One great value they have is as pollinators, as crabs bloom for long periods, so can take care of a whole orchard. In addition, a blooming crab-apple tree is gorgeous and crabs make delicious jelly.

Dolgo is even more talented than that, as its little fruits are actually edible fresh.

So if you like your apples tart and like the idea of eating them five or six at a time, you just might want to diversify your apple interests by adding a crab-apple to your repertoire.

Dolgo Facts

Its origins

Discovered in Siberia, Russia, unknown date.

Flavour, aroma, texture

This crab-apple is actually edible fresh (as well as being good for jelly), with fruit that's firm, juicy and tart.

Appearance

These little bright red crabs are about an inch and a half in diameter.

When they’re available

Early season (usually in mid-August).

Quality for fresh eating

Good, considering it's a tart little crab-apple.

Quality for cooking

Very good in jelly.

Quality for cider

Useful, indeed, as it can add some excellent acid and astringency to cider blends.

Keeping ability

So-so (about a month when kept refrigerated).