Turkish Cowboy is one of our newest seedling selections, and it’s quickly become a standout. The mother tree has been thriving for over 40 years in a cold, low-lying spot near the Clark Fork River in Missoula, Montana. Despite the harsh conditions, this tree rarely experiences tip dieback and is known for being extremely prolific.

Why "Turkish Cowboy"?

The name comes from the fruit’s exceptional texture, reminiscent of a dried Turkish apricot:

• Slightly crunchy on the outside

• Chewy and juicy on the inside

• Above-average flavor, especially when fully ripe

• Can develop a beautiful deep orange to red blush with sun exposure

Fruit Size & Quality

• Medium to large fruit, up to 2 inches

• Ideal for fresh eating, drying, or breeding for improved texture and productivity

Cold Hardiness & 2024 Blossom Loss

This variety has endured decades of Montana winters, including sub -30°F temperatures, and may be hardy to at least -35°F. However, in 2024, a polar vortex hit after an unusually warm December, causing the flower buds to deharden. The tree experienced temperatures as low as -27°F to -30°F, which killed the flower buds for that season.

• While the exact lower limit of hardiness is still unknown, the tree’s long-term survival is promising

• If you're in a region with extreme winter cold, consider pairing or comparing with proven hardy varieties like Westcot or Morden 604

A Strong Candidate for Breeding or Growing True-to-Type

Whether you're looking to:

• Grow a hardy seedling that will likely resemble the Turkish Cowboy mother tree

• Or you want a solid foundation for breeding work

—this is a great selection to start with.