JonaMac was developed in 1944 by Roger D. Way via the New York Agricultural Experimental Station. It is another extreme north variety able to withstand temperatures as low as -50 degrees Fahrenheit. As its name implies, it is a cross between Jonathan and Macintosh.
The flavor of the JonaMac is similar to Macintosh. They have a firm texture and deliver a crisp bite. They are generally used as an eating apple rather than in desserts or canning due to their crispiness. Ever watch those commercials where someone bites into an apple and it gives this crunchy sound? Think JonaMac!
When ripe, the apples are a deep red, with a tinge of green underneath. Medium size. The taste is sweet with a hint of strawberry.
It is resistant to Cedar Apple Rust but somewhat susceptible to Apple Scab, so it is recommended that you prune the tree yearly to allow air to flow between the branches.
Jonamac has an extended bloom season and will pair well with early bloomers like Summer Rambo and mid-season blossoms like Smokehouse. See our “Product Snapshot” page for a list of compatible pollinators.
We have placed this tree on a rootstalk that sends its roots deep and is further cold-tolerant. It will be drought tolerant.
