Forney

Origin and History

An old variety of unknown widespread cultivation. Said to have originated in Burke County, North Carolina, though the particular locality is not known. Where established, it is much esteemed for its appearance, excellent flavor, and market value.

Alternate names: Perkins, Fleming

Tree

Vigorous and upright in habit, with a strong bearing character. Bears abundantly nearly every year, indicating reliable productivity and consistent cropping.

Fruit

Form and size: Rather large; roundish, inclining to oblong, slightly conical, and a little oblique.

Skin: Whitish ground, heavily colored with shadings, stripes, and splashes of light and dark red. Covered with many small and large light dots, a few of which are areole (surrounded by a lighter halo).

Stem: Short and rather small.

Cavity: Medium in depth, rather narrow, and deep.

Calyx: Closed.

Basin: Quite large and round, slightly plaited (forming shallow folds or wrinkles).

Flesh: White, half fine in texture, tender, and moderately juicy. Flavor mild and pleasant subacid. Quality is very good overall.

Core: Medium.

Season and Storage

Ripens in October and November, suggesting mid-to-late autumn maturity and suitability for storage.

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Source: A.J. Downing, The Fruits and Fruit Trees of America, 1900 edition.