The Kanzi Apple Tree

The Kanzi Apple tree is one of a variety of exciting new apple cultivars that are coming out of Europe. This has only recently been introduced to the United States so it’s an exciting new frontier for apple enthusiasts.

The Kanzi apple has been regularly ranked fairly high by apple tasters. It’s got a unique flavor as well as an exciting texture. The sample was designed to be eaten raw.

Let’s take a closer look at the ins-and-outs of the Kanzi Apple tree. 

History of the Kanzi Apple Tree 

The Kanzi Apple tree first hit European markets in 2006. This particular cultivar was in development for years before its initial release. It wouldn’t be until 2014 when this apple first came to the United States.

The Kanzi Apple is a natural cultivar that is a cross between the Gala and Braeburn apples. What’s very interesting to note here is that the Kanzi Apple has the exact same parentage as the Jazz apple.

This means that the Jazz Apple and the Kanzi Apple are going to be very similar in their character. Many people have compared Jazz and Kanzi apples and found that they have incredibly similar qualities. However, many tasters routinely rate the Kanzi apple above the Jazz apple when it comes to flavor.

Let’s take a closer look at the characteristics of the Kanzi Apple tree. 

Kanzi Apple Tree Characteristics

One of the interesting things about the Kanzi Apple trees is that they’re a very new cultivar. It’s also a proprietary and patented cultivar which makes it a little mysterious.

The characteristics of the Kanzi Apple tree are a well-guarded secret by the companies that own these apple trees. What we can say for certain is that the apples themselves have a wonderful, mottled look. There are patches of yellow and red on these apples which give them an almost tie-dyed appearance.

The apple trees themselves have the stunning branching and green leaves that you expect from any apple tree. The real ornamentation here though is the fruit we mentioned earlier. It’s almost like having a naturally growing and decorated tree. 

Planting Zones 

Kanzi apple trees grow all over the world. While the official USDA hardiness zones at these trees grow in are not widely shared, it’s safe to say that they’re likely to do well and USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9.

This information is largely based on their parentage and the Gala and Braeburn apples as well as the regions of the world that the Kanzi apple trees are known to grow in.

Our full guide on how to grow apples for use can get you everything you need to know whether you’re opening up a proprietary Kanzi apple tree orchard or you’re just experimenting with an apple tree in your backyard. 

Size and Spacing

There’s a golden rule when it comes to spacing your apple trees.

Apple trees have two essential measurements when it comes to their size. One is their overall height and the other one is how far their branches reach out in any direction from their central trunk. This measurement is known as their spread.

Apple trees should be given enough room to reach their maximum spread without touching any other trees or buildings near them. This ensures that the trees won’t crowd each other out and compete for nutrients and some might be each other.

The spacing of an apple tree is essential for having a regular harvest and a healthy tree. 

Pollination

There are two types of apple trees when it comes to pollination.

There are traditional apple trees that require a pollinator. These apple trees require a neighboring plant that is in a reciprocating pollinating group. Typically, you can accomplish this by planting two different apple cultivars in your yard. These trees will pollinate each other and ensure a healthy and successful harvest.

There are also self-pollinating apple trees that do not need a partner in order to pollinate. The pollen of these trees is able to take care of itself because the trees are self-fertile. The tree still requires the pollen to spread from flower to flower, but this is still taken care of by insects or even bruises and some locations.

Now let’s talk about the ins-and-outs of caring for an apple tree. 

Kanzi Apple Tree Care

Here’s what you’re going to need to know whether you’re taking care of your Kanzi apple tree orchard or the apple tree and your garden. 

Sunlight

Apple trees are full sunlight plants. This means that they require 6 to 8 hours of sunlight everyday. 

Watering

Apple trees require well draining soil in a moderate amount of moisture. In many locations, and especially with apple trees growing in gardens, rainfall is enough to handle all of the watering the apple tree needs.

Apple trees also require more watering after they’ve been recently transplanted. This gives the traditional nutrients and helps it get set up and its new environment. 

Pruning 

 Apple trees are pruned mainly for two reasons.

The first reason is that you want to prune an apple tree regularly in order to ensure a good harvest. Pruning back some of the growth from the previous season is a great way to ensure that the apple tree focuses on producing new fruit for the coming harvest.

Pruning also helps keep an apple tree healthy. This allows you to shape the growth of the apple tree and ensure that it maintains a healthy and upright position. It also gives you a chance to prune back damaged or infected branches to help protect the health of the overall plant. 

You can check out our full guide for pruning apple trees to get really into this subject.

Diseases & Care 

Apple trees are wonderful wonderful plants whether you’re enjoying them for their fruit or just their ornamental qualities. However, they can face some serious problems when it comes to diseases.

Apple trees have a variety of health concerns including black spot, mildew, and fungal or bacterial infections. The best way to protect your apple trees is to grow them in the right conditions and keep them happy and healthy. If you happen to notice a disease heading into your apple tree, you should take action quickly to prevent it from spreading to other plants or doing serious damage to the tree itself.

Pests 

Pests are another big concern when it comes to apple trees. You have to watch out for aphids and beetles as well as a variety of other creatures that can damage your apple tree.

Many people choose to spray apple trees to keep them healthy. This is one way to go about things. You can also try more natural options for keeping your apple tree pest free. Now more than ever, there are increasing numbers of organic apple orchards that are taking pesticide-free approaches to keeping their apple trees healthy.

Now that we know everything we need to know about growing a Kanzi apple tree, how do we prepare the fruit? 

Common Uses For The Kanzi Apple Tree 

Here are some fun and exciting ideas for what you can do with the fruit of the Kanzi Apple tree. 

What Does The Kanzi Apple Taste Like?

The Kanzi apple tastes very similar to the Jazz apple. It’s known for its mild flavor as well as its sweetness. The flesh of the sample tree is firm and crisp and offers a nice and satisfying snap when you first bite in.

Cooking

The Kanzi apple was developed to be eaten raw. It’s not particularly well known as a cooking apple, but it does have applications in the kitchen. You can cook and prepare the sample just like you can a wide variety of other apple cultivars.

Eating Raw

This is one of the best apples for eating raw. The Kanzi apple is juicy and has a mild flavor. The flesh has a great bite to it. All of these factors combined together to make one of the best apples for eating raw.

If you’re lucky enough to be in an area of the world where you can get fresh Kanzi apples, they’re a great choice for having a delicious fresh snack.

Canning / Freezing / Drying

Canning and preserving apples is a time-honored tradition. Back before refrigeration, the only way to enjoy apples out of season was to preserve them for months to come. You can try drying your apples out into delicious Apple Chips as well as canning them. Canned apples typically take the form of candied apples or Apple Butter.

Freezing apples is also a great choice if you don’t mind how the apple looks in the final dish. If you’re using your apples to make something like apple butter, freezing can be a great option.

Delicious Kanzi Apple Recipes 

 Here are a few recipes that you can try with the Kanzi apple.

This Savory Apple Onion Tart recipe is a great way to try something a little bit out of the box using the Kanzi apple. If you’re more health-conscious, these Apple Muffins are also delicious. When in doubt, you can never go wrong with an Old-Fashioned Apple Crisp. 

Health Benefits of the Kanzi Apple Tree 

Kanzi apples are packed with health benefits.

These apples are rich in vitamins and nutrients. You can find an ample amount of vitamin C inside of Kanzi apples. They’re also a great choice for people looking for healthy snacks and a way to get a sugary treat without all of those processed sugars and chemical preservatives.

Eating more apples in your diet has been associated with better health outcomes for individuals with heart disease, diabetes, and a variety of other medical conditions.

Where To Buy The Kanzi Apple Tree

The Kanzi Apple tree is a trademarked cultivar owned by Better3Fruits and Greenstar Kanzi Europe. As with most apples that are currently under a trademark or patent, it can be very difficult for independent orchardists and home gardeners to get their hands on one they can grow in their yard.

This is because these companies routinely restrict who can grow their apples. Typically, only a small group of pre-approved orchards are allowed to grow these patented fruits. This is done mainly to ensure that these proprietary cultivars don’t get too widely spread and the company can retain control over their intellectual property. It’s also done to ensure consistency and quality from season to season.

All of this means that individuals looking to grow a Kanzi Apple tree in their backyard are going to have to consider alternative cultivars that offer similar taste and style.

Where To Buy The Kanzi Apple 

Here’s the good news, the Kanzi apple has become relatively popular in the United States and now can be found in many local grocery stores.

The Kanzi apple didn’t get introduced into the United States until 2014. It’s still a relatively obscure apple cultivar and not nearly as common as its parents the Gala and the Braeburn. If you can’t find the Kanzi apple at your local market, you can consider asking a grocery co-op or specialty produce store to order them for you. Many of these local shops are familiar with special ordering produce for their customers.

Wrapping up The Kanzi Apple Tree 

The Kanzi apple is an exciting cultivar that is making waves here in the United States. While you might not be able to grow a Kanzi Apple tree in your backyard, you will be able to find these apples at your local grocery store. You can pick up a Kanzi apple today and see what everyone in Europe has been talking about. 

Excited for more apple content? Visit our apple trees page to learn more about apple planting, growing, picking, cooking, and more!