Dumelow’s Seedling

Why you should be excited

Dumelow's Seedling is a 19th century English cooking apple with a good reputation and a misspelled name.

The story of Dumelow's Seedling

I suppose it would be a 'good news-bad news' moment for Mr. Dummeller of Shakerstone, England if he could jump forward in time by a couple of centuries and learn that the apple he introduced to the world in the early 1800s still exists and has a positive -- if somewhat obscure -- reputation.

That's the good news.

The not-so-good news is that this apple has a name that's a misspelling: Dumelow's Seedling rather than what it should have been: Dumeller's Seedling.

If such time travel ever occurred, one would need to hope that Mr. Dumeller wasn't vain, as his name may have been corrupted, but his apple remains a solid cooker. In fact, it was considered a star apple during Victorian times.

Dumelow's Seedling Facts

Its origins

Raised from seed near Shakerstone, Leicestershire, England, likely in the late 18th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

This sharp culinary apple breaks down into a stiff and nicely-flavoured puree when cooked.

Appearance

A large, yellow-gold apple flushed with a hint of red.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in mid-October).

Quality for fresh eating

Mainly used for cooking and juice.

Quality for cooking

Very good.

Quality for cider

While not particularly known for use in cider, this variety's relatively high acidity could be useful in balancing the acidity of cider blends.

Keeping ability

Very good (about 4 months when kept refrigerated).