Roseau d'Automne

Origin/History

Foreign origin; described by Downing's second entry (under the synonym Autumn Rose) as an old English variety. Both Downing entries attribute their descriptions to Coxe, indicating the variety was known in early American pomological literature. Elliott notes that the name "Roseau" alone is used incorrectly by some writers; the full name Roseau d'Automne is the proper form.

Tree

Large, vigorous grower with a spreading habit (Downing).

Fruit

Size and Form: Medium. Roundish ovate, flat at the base.

Skin: Yellow ground, with a blush red cheek. Downing notes russet at the stem end. Downing's second entry describes the coloring as red on a bright rich yellow, with russet at the stem.

Stem: Not described in source.

Cavity: Not described in source.

Calyx: Not described in source.

Basin: Not described in source.

Flesh/Flavor: Elliott describes the flesh as yellowish, crisp, and acid. Downing's first entry describes it as yellow, juicy, tender, rich, and firm. Downing's second entry describes it as yellow, rich, juicy, tender, and high flavored. The two sources conflict on character: Elliott emphasizes crispness and acidity, while Downing emphasizes richness, juiciness, and tenderness.

Core/Seeds: Not described in source.

Season

Sources conflict. Elliott gives November to January. Downing gives September for both entries. The discrepancy may reflect different regional conditions or different strains under observation.

Uses

Not described in source.

Subtypes/Variants

Not described in source.

Other

Downing lists this variety twice: once under the name Roseau d'Automne and once under the name Autumn Rose, cross-referencing each to the other, both citing Coxe as the authority. The two Downing entries are broadly consistent in physical description but together suggest the variety was known in early American pomology under both names.