The Apple Scrumptious Tree (Malus domestica ‘Scrumptious’) is a highly reliable dessert apple bred specifically for the UK climate. This variety is loved for its combination of superb flavour, self-fertility, and resistance to late frosts, making it a consistent and rewarding tree for gardeners of all levels.
The fruits are medium-sized with thin, easy-to-bite skin, which makes them especially suitable for children and ideal for enjoying straight from the tree. The eating experience is exceptional: crisp, juicy, and aromatic, with a sweet, honeyed flavour that carries subtle notes of cherries, wine, and fragrant undertones. This complexity sets Scrumptious apart from many other dessert apples, placing it firmly among the most delicious modern varieties.
A mid-season cropper, Scrumptious apples are typically ready to harvest in September, offering an early supply of fresh fruit for autumn eating. Unlike some apples that require lengthy storage, these are best enjoyed immediately, when their unique flavour is at its peak.
Scrumptious is self-fertile, meaning it does not require another apple tree for pollination. However, it will also cross-pollinate with other varieties, potentially boosting yields for nearby apple trees. This versatility makes it especially suitable for smaller gardens where space for multiple trees may be limited.
The tree itself is compact and easy to grow, with a naturally well-branched structure that requires only standard apple tree care. It thrives in fertile, well-drained soil and performs best in a sunny position, though it remains hardy and productive across a wide range of conditions. Its blossoms are resistant to frost damage, a common issue in the UK, ensuring reliable fruiting year after year.
Scrumptious was bred in Kent by Hugh Ermen, a respected fruit breeder, and introduced by Frank P Matthews in 2000. It is the result of crossing Starkspur Golden Delicious with Discovery, combining the sweetness and crispness of its parents with improved adaptability for the British climate. Since its introduction, it has become one of the nation’s favourite garden apples.
For anyone looking to grow an apple tree that is easy to care for, reliably productive, and unmatched in flavour, the Apple Scrumptious Tree is an excellent choice.
The Apple Scrumptious Tree is medium-sized, typically reaching a height of 3–4 metres with a spread of 2–3 metres after around ten years. Its final size depends on the rootstock chosen and the level of pruning, allowing flexibility for different gardens.
It can be trained as a freestanding bush tree, espalier, or cordon, making it adaptable to both larger orchards and smaller urban gardens. Annual pruning will help maintain its shape, encourage airflow, and support consistent fruit production.
Scrumptious is also well suited for planting in smaller spaces thanks to its self-fertility and compact habit. Despite its moderate size, it is a heavy cropper, producing generous harvests of delicious apples each September.
