Ben Davis Apple Tree
Description
About the Ben Davis Apple Tree
One of America’s earliest commercial success stories, the Ben Davis Apple Tree—also known as the “Mortgage Lifter”—earned its nickname from being a hardy, dependable producer with fruit tough enough to ship without bruising. This heirloom variety dates back to the 1800s and has stood the test of time in both home orchards and farmsteads.
Ben Davis apples are medium-sized with striking red skin over a yellow-green base. Their firm, coarse white flesh is mildly sweet with a delicate aroma, making them a good choice for fresh eating, baking, sauces, and pies. The apples store remarkably well, often lasting over three months in proper cold storage.
How to Grow the Ben Davis Apple Tree
This cold-hardy tree thrives in USDA Zones 3–7 and ripens in late September. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Ben Davis is an upright, spreading tree known for its vigor, precocious fruiting, and reliable annual harvests. A pollinator is required—see recommendations below for ideal companion varieties.
Resistant to cedar-apple rust, woolly apple aphid, and powdery mildew, the Ben Davis does have some susceptibility to apple scab and canker. Its long hang time on the tree and resilience in variable climates make it a great choice for growers seeking both heritage appeal and practical performance.
Whether you know it as Baltimore Pippin, Kentucky Pippin, Funkhouse, the Mortgage Maker – the Ben Davis apple tree is a slice of American orchard history—bringing lasting flavor and hard-earned reliability to your landscape.
Survival Guaranteed!
Since 1816, Stark Bro’s has promised to provide customers with the very best fruit trees and plants. It’s just that simple. If your trees or plants do not survive, please let us know within one year of delivery. We will send you a free one-time replacement, with a nominal shipping fee of $9.99. If the item in question is not available, we can issue a one-time credit to your account equaling the original product purchase price or issue you a refund. Read more about our warranty policy.
Characteristics
| Bloom Color | Pink, Red, White |
| Bloom Time | Mid |
| Fruit Color | Red |
| Fruit Size | Medium - Large |
| Hardiness Zone Range | 3 - 7 |
| Pollination | Pollinator Required |
| Ripens/Harvest | Late September-early October |
| Shade/Sun | Full Sun |
| Soil Composition | Loamy |
| Soil Moisture | Well Drained |
| Soil pH Level | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Taste | Mild, Subacid |
| Texture | Firm, Coarse |
| Years to Bear | 2 - 5 |
Size & Spacing
Mature Size
Recommended Spacing
Zone Compatibility
Pollination
This variety requires another one for adequate pollination.
Tools & Supplies
Planting & Care
Learn all about how to grow apple trees in The Growing Guide. An entire section of our website dedicated to your growing success.
