Released in 1922 by the University of Minnesota, Haralson is one of those apples destined to stick around, especially among cold-climate growers. With likely parentage of Malinda and Wealthy, this variety produces trees that develop a strong central leader with wide-angled scaffold limbs—making for a well-structured, durable tree.

A Favorite Among Growers

While we think Haralson is certainly a good apple, our close friends Kate Wilburn and Shane Sator consider it their absolute favorite. Haralson also has a special place in our hearts, as it's one of the parents—along with Dolgo crab—of Kerr, one of our all-time favorite apples.

Fruit Characteristics and Culinary Use

Haralson produces medium to large-sized apples that are versatile in the kitchen. It’s great for:

• Fresh eating

• Cooking

• Pies and baking

Extreme Cold Hardiness

This is a solid Zone 3 apple, and its hardiness is exceptional. On Ed Schultz’s farm, Haralson trees survived -47°F with no damage, and the variety is believed to be hardy to at least -50°F or even lower.

Rootstock and Availability for 2025

For 2025, we’ve grafted Haralson onto the ridiculously cold-hardy Dolgo rootstock (hardy to -60°F or more!). This provides peace of mind to those in regions that regularly experience winter lows below -40°F—you’ll know your tree can handle it.