For all you AI lovers:
I’ve conducted a deep dive into the GrowingFruit.org forum to summarize information about the apple variety known as Clark’s Crab based on posts and discussions available on the site. This is a detailed synthesis of what’s shared by forum members, particularly from threads mentioning Clark’s Crab, focusing on firsthand observations and avoiding speculation beyond the data provided.
Summary of Clark’s Crab Apple Variety
Origin and Development:
*** Clark’s Crab is a seedling variety developed by an individual referred to as “clarkinks,” a forum member from Kansas who has been breeding apples for over 14 years (as of a February 16, 2025, post). It emerged from a personal, small-scale breeding project started around 2011, aimed at creating unique apples rather than commercial production.**
*** It’s not a traditional hybrid between a crabapple and a standard apple but is classified as a crabapple due to its smaller fruit size (typically under 2 inches in diameter, aligning with the common crabapple definition). The exact parentage isn’t fully detailed, but it’s part of a broader effort involving first- and second-generation crosses.**
Physical Characteristics:
*** Fruit Appearance: Clark’s Crab is notable for its striking visual appeal. The fruit grows in dense clusters, often likened to “clusters of grapes,” which hang heavily on the tree. Posts from October 16, 2022, and January 6, 2023, highlight this clustering trait, with photos showing abundant, small apples on top-worked trees at the**
@39thparallel
orchard and nursery in Kansas.
*** Size and Color: The apples are small, fitting the crabapple category (less than 2 inches), with a vivid red coloration that stands out. They’re described as visually impressive, especially when laden on branches.**
*** Tree Structure: The trees can be grafted onto existing stock, as evidenced by top-working mentioned in posts. They appear vigorous, with fruit production starting within 2-3 years of grafting.**
Flavor and Use:
*** Taste: Specific flavor notes are sparse in the forum, but Clark’s Crab isn’t highlighted as a standout for fresh eating compared to other crabs like Wickson or Chestnut, which are praised for sweetness and complexity (April 20, 2016, thread). This suggests it might lean toward the tart, tannic profile typical of many crabapples, though no direct tasting notes confirm this.**
*** Culinary Potential: Its small size and clustering make it a candidate for cider or jelly, common uses for crabapples due to their high pectin content. However, no explicit mention of its cider or jelly quality appears in the threads, unlike Dolgo or Wickson, which are frequently cited for such purposes.**
*** Ornamental Value: The heavy fruit clusters and persistent red apples suggest strong ornamental appeal, especially in fall and winter, aligning with crabapples’ role as landscape trees.**
Growing and Availability:
*** Adaptability: Clark’s Crab has gained popularity in Kansas, with successful cultivation at the**
@39thparallel
orchard, indicating it thrives in Zone 6b/7a climates (typical for central Kansas). Posts imply it’s hardy and productive without extensive care, though specific growing conditions aren’t detailed.
*** Propagation: The variety is being grafted and sold by**
@39thparallel
(Mike), who recognized its potential after seeing it at clarkinks’ property years ago. Clarkinks expresses gratitude that Mike’s efforts have prevented the variety from being “wasted,” suggesting it’s not patented or trademarked, keeping it accessible to growers (January 6, 2023).
*** Distribution: As of January 2023, it’s noted as an emerging variety, with scions or trees available through niche growers like**
@39thparallel
, though it’s not yet mainstream like Dolgo or Centennial.
Forum Reception:
*** Clarkinks takes pride in Clark’s Crab, emphasizing its visual impact over commercial intent. In a January 6, 2023, post, he encourages others to “try it,” citing a photo of Mike beside a laden tree as sufficient persuasion. The community seems intrigued, with mentions in threads like “New Apple Seedling Varieties” (October 16, 2022) showing interest in its unique traits.**
*** There’s no extensive discussion on disease resistance (e.g., apple scab, fire blight), yield specifics, or long-term performance, possibly because it’s still relatively new and under evaluation by hobbyists.**
Conclusion:
Clark’s Crab is a visually striking crabapple variety from a Kansas breeder’s seedling project, characterized by small, red, grape-like fruit clusters that offer significant ornamental value. While its flavor profile isn’t deeply explored on GrowingFruit.org, its appeal lies in its aesthetics and potential for cider or preserves, typical of crabapples. It’s gaining traction among enthusiasts in Kansas, propagated through grafting, and reflects a grassroots effort to share a unique apple without commercial restrictions. For growers in similar climates, it’s a promising addition, especially for those valuing beauty and pollination support over fresh-eating qualities.
If you’d like me to dig further into specific aspects (e.g., grafting success, taste comparisons), let me know—I can cross-reference other threads or posts within the site!
