Court Pendu Plat or Rouge

Dessert

Europe; described c.1613 by Bauhin, but believed older. Known as Court Pendu Rouge, in France. History much confused with Court Pendu Gris. Synonyms are numerous, include Wise Apple because flowers late and escapes spring frosts. Claimed Roman origin, but Leroy claimed Court Pendu Gris had ancient associations. 'Capendu' syn. Court Pendu Gris appeared in accounts of Normandy abbeys in the 15th Century and in 1420 was on sale in Rouen market. By the 16th Century it was grown all over France, also Italy and Switzerland. Some claimed it was Roman and Cestianna of Pliny. Estienne named it Court Pendu in 1540, because it was 'short hanged', ie short stalk. 'Capendu' known to Parkinson in 1629; 'Court Pendu Plat' known in England by the 18th Century.

Rich, fruity, strong pineapple-like acidity; mellows to become sweet, scented yet intensely flavoured in February. For centuries valued for dessert, and among top ten Victorian apples, prized also for its vermillion flesh. Valued, too, as a decorative tree to border walk of grown in pots to set about formal gardens. Court Pendu Gris and Court Pendu Plat still grown in France.