Magnet

Origin / History

Magnet originated with the late Dr. Stayman of Leavenworth, Kansas, originator of Stayman Winesap. He first called it Red Sap. In 1897 he wrote to the nursery: "No apple of its season will sell as well, not even Jonathan, for Jonathan is not as good in quality or as fine looking; neither does it drop like Jonathan." Like Stayman Winesap, Magnet came very nearly being lost to the horticultural world. In 1910 it was described as a valuable variety just beginning to be appreciated.

Tree

Magnet is a seedling of Winesap. The tree is upright in growth and healthy, and is described as a splendid orchard tree. It is very promising in all regions where its parent succeeds.

Fruit

Size: Not described in source.

Form: Not described in source.

Stem: Not described in source.

Cavity: Not described in source.

Calyx: Not described in source.

Basin: Not described in source.

Skin: Dark crimson on a yellow ground, striped indistinctly with deep purple.

Dots: Not described in source.

Flesh and flavor: Rich, sub-acid, quality good. The fruit is rich, glorious, and beautiful.

Core and seeds: Not described in source.

Season

Magnet belongs to the Jonathan season. The fruit does not drop like Jonathan.

Uses

Magnet was reported to sell as well as any apple of its season. Dr. Stayman wrote that no apple of its season would sell better, not even Jonathan, which he considered inferior in quality and appearance.

Subtypes / Variants

Not described in source.

Other

Not described in source.