Patte de Loup apple tree – AB

Description

Pommier Patte de Loup

The Patte de Loup apple tree is an old variety emblematic of the French fruit heritage, originating from Beaupréau in Maine-et-Loire. This exceptional apple, known since the Middle Ages, takes its mysterious name from the characteristic crescent-shaped scar that marks its fruits, resembling the scratch of a wolf’s paw. According to legend, this variety was Anne of Brittany’s favourite apple, testifying to its taste quality that has been recognised for centuries.

This hardy apple variety appeals to lovers of heirloom apples with its unique taste, blending sweet sweetness and delicate acidity with subtle aniseed notes. The Patte de Loup apple tree is a vigorous tree with an upright habit, particularly appreciated for its resistance to diseases and its ease of cultivation.

Characteristics of Wolf’s paw fruits

Patte de Loup apples are distinguished by their unique appearance and exceptional taste qualities. Of medium caliber (70-80 mm), they have a spherical shape slightly flattened at the poles. Their rough skin has a tawny brown colour with shades of green, slightly scaly and strongly punctuated with grey, giving it an authentic rustic appearance.

scar

scent

The yellowish to greenish flesh is fine, compact and firm, offering a crunchy texture that is particularly appreciated. The harmonious taste mixes sugar and acidity with a delicate fragrance with notes of anise that gives this apple a unique and recognizable taste signature.

Cultivation and maintenance of the Patte de Loup apple tree

The Patte de Loup apple tree is a particularly easy fruit tree to grow, suitable for beginners as well as the most experienced gardeners. Its exceptional hardiness and natural resistance to disease make it an ideal choice for organic or permaculture cultivation.

🌱 Planting and soil

Plant your apple tree between October and March in well-drained, cool, deep soil with slightly organic matter. It tolerates different types of soil but prefers low calcareous soils. Choose a sunny to semi-shaded location, sheltered from strong winds, although the variety is resistant to windy conditions thanks to its solidly attached fruits.

🌸 Pollination

This variety is not self-fertile and requires the presence of other apple trees for optimal fruiting. For successful pollination, combine it with the Golden Delicious AB Apple Tree or the Queen of Reinettes AB Apple Tree, compatible flowering varieties available in our range.

✂️ Size Care

Carry out training pruning in late winter (February-March) during the first few years to structure the tree. Thereafter, light maintenance pruning is sufficient every 3-4 years to maintain a balanced shape and aerate the branches. Regularly remove the suckers at the foot and dead branches.

Harvesting and storage

The harvest of Patte de Loup apples takes place in October-November, just before the first frosts. The fruits reach maturity for consumption from January to April, during which time they fully express their taste qualities.

This late variety offers remarkable storage qualities :

• 🏠 Cellar or cellar: 4 to 6 months in a cool and ventilated place
• ❄️ Refrigerator: 2 to 3 months in the crisper drawer
• 🥧 Usage: Excellent table and pastry apple

Culinary Uses

Patte de Loup apples excel both in fresh consumption and in cooking. Their firm flesh and fragrant flavour make them a preferred choice for:

• 🍎 Plain tasting in table apples
• 🥧 Pastries and pies (holds up well to baking)
• 🍮 Flavoured compotes with aniseed notes
• 🥗 Fruit salads to add character

Advantages of the variety

The Patte de Loup apple tree has many advantages that make it a must-have in the orchard:

• 🛡️ Natural resistance to disease (not very susceptible to scab)
• 🌬️ Wind tolerance due to well-attached fruit
• 🕰️ Long natural shelf life (up to 6 months)
• 🌿 Ease of cultivation suitable for all gardeners
• 🏛️ Valuable genetic heritage of old varieties
• 🐝 Pollinator-friendly biodiversity

Choosing the Patte de Loup apple tree means opting for an authentic variety that combines tradition, flavor and ease of cultivation. This exceptional apple will bring character and originality to your orchard while participating in the preservation of the French fruit heritage.

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