Apple Tropicana
Notify MeMalus domestica Tropicana is a New Zealand-developed apple known for its tropical-sweet flavour and crisp, juicy texture. The medium to large fruit features rosy red skin with golden undertones and a refreshing taste that makes it a popular choice for fresh eating. Flowering in mid-spring, it ripens from late summer into early autumn and offers a good harvest under the right conditions.
Well suited to home orchards, family gardens, and lifestyle blocks. Pairs nicely with productive, contemporary, or informal garden styles.
Thrives in a sunny, sheltered position with fertile, free-draining soil and consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Plant with a compatible pollinator to ensure reliable fruiting. Space trees 3–4 metres apart for healthy development.
Mature size: Reaches 4–5 metres tall with a tidy, upright to slightly spreading growth habit.
Trimming: Prune in winter to maintain an open, airy structure that allows good light and airflow. Remove dead, damaged, or inward-growing branches to encourage healthy growth and fruit production. Minimal pruning is needed once shape is established.
Deadheading: Not applicable for fruit trees.
Fertilising: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support strong growth and fruiting. An annual mulch with compost or well-rotted manure will help retain moisture and improve soil quality.
Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase (first 1–2 years) and during dry spells, especially in summer when the fruit is forming. Avoid waterlogging and ensure consistent moisture for best fruit quality.
Pest Control: Keep an eye out for codling moth, leafroller, and aphids. Use pheromone traps for moths, and control aphids with insecticidal soap or a strong water spray. Encourage beneficial insects in the garden.
Disease Management: Generally healthy, but may be vulnerable to powdery mildew and apple scab in humid conditions. Watch for white powdery growth on young shoots (mildew) or dark scabs on fruit and leaves. Remove infected material promptly and consider applying a preventative fungicide in early spring. Prune to maintain airflow.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
