Early Butter of Cincinnati

Origin and History

A variety recognized by Cincinnati pomologists but with uncertain identity history. The original tree at Cincinnati is said to have been brought from New Jersey. The variety's identity has been subject to confusion; Elliott notes that Cincinnati pomologists could not recognize it by any known description and speculated it might be related to the Dearborn Seedling, though the fruit examined was small and the identification remained uncertain.

Tree

Upright growth habit, short-jointed, with yellowish brown wood. Forms a handsome, symmetrical head.

Fruit

Size & Form: Small, oblong ovate, narrowing most toward the stem.

Skin: Light greenish yellow with dark green specks. Rarely develops a bronzed red color in full sun.

Calyx: Prominent with bold, reflexed segments.

Flesh & Flavor: White, juicy, buttery, rated "very good."

Core & Seeds: Core is compact. Seeds are few and defective.

Season

Ripens in late July.

Uses

Not described in source.

Other

The fruit specimens examined by Elliott were small, and he was unable to study the variety in perfection, which may explain the noted uncertainty about identification among Cincinnati pomologists.