- Mature height
- 3m to 5m (approx.) (can be kept smaller by pruning)
- Mature width
- 2m to 3m
Malus domestica 'Granny Smith' is Australia's most famous apple, raised in Ryde, New South Wales in the 1860s and now grown worldwide. Its crisp bright green fruit holds a distinctive tartness that makes it the standard choice for cooking as well as fresh eating.
'Granny Smith' grows to 3 to 5 metres tall and 2 to 3 metres wide at 30 to 60 centimetres per year, and is easily held at 2.5 metres with annual pruning. White spring blossom covers the tree before the foliage emerges, and the fruit stores exceptionally well after picking.
'Granny Smith' is frost hardy, surviving heavy and frequent frost without damage, and needs winter chill to crop reliably. It wants full sun and free-draining soil, and crops far more heavily with a second apple variety flowering nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Malus domestica 'Granny Smith'
When does Granny Smith fruit ripen?
Granny Smith is a late-season apple, ripening through autumn. The fruit stores exceptionally well and holds its texture for months after picking.
Does Granny Smith need a pollinator?
Yes. It crops far more heavily with a compatible apple variety flowering nearby. Pink Lady, Gala and Golden Delicious are all suitable partners.
How big does a Granny Smith apple tree grow?
It reaches 3 to 5 metres tall and 2 to 3 metres wide unpruned, and is easily held at 2.5 metres with annual pruning.
Where did Granny Smith originate?
It was raised in Ryde, New South Wales in the 1860s from a chance seedling found by Maria Ann Smith, and is Australia's best-known contribution to world apple growing.
Can Granny Smith be grown in a pot?
Yes, in a large pot with free-draining mix in full sun. Container trees crop lighter and need consistent watering and annual pruning to stay productive.
When should I prune an apple tree?
Prune in winter while dormant, removing crossing branches and opening the centre to light. Apples fruit on spurs that persist for years, so avoid removing short stubby growth.
Does Granny Smith need a cold winter?
Yes. It requires winter chill to break dormancy and crop reliably, so it performs best in temperate and cool districts rather than the subtropics.