Arkansas Black is an heirloom apple that originated in Benton county, Arkansas. Quite possibly raised in the orchard of Mr. Brathwaite, the first fruit was harvested around the year 1870. In some cases Arkansas Black has erroneously been listed as identical to the variety simply known as Arkansas, due to the similarity in name and origin, when in fact the trees and fruit bear little resemblance to each other. Unlike the Arkansas, which is commonly accepted to be a seedling of Winesap, the parentage of Arkansas black is less certain although it is suggested that the Arkansas Black also has Winesap among it's ancestors. The name for the variety comes from the fruits deep red hue, which when ripe can appear almost black.
Arkansas Black, Cornell Orchards, taken beginning of September. Color becomes significantly darker prior to harvest in late October. |
In the orchard the variety has shown some resistance to Apple Scab and Fireblight, as well as a strong resistance to Cedar Apple Rust. It is a good bearer, although a poor pollinator. It is harvested here in New York in late October or early November and will keep for many months in storage.