43 



which seem to characterize the apples of these different regions. 

 The same variety shows marked variation in shape according 

 to its locale. 



In the elongated 'sheep nose' shape, there is generally a 

 clear, external indication of the pentagonal nature of the fruit. 

 The "Delicious" variety shows five prominent knobs at its 

 distal end; so, also the western Spitzenberg, though less prom- 

 inently. Both these apples are more or less five sided and angled 

 in cross section, as is the "Winter Banana," which in addition, 

 often shows narrow, roughened ridges along the angles. (Plate 3) . 



In these types of apple, it is relatively easy to locate the 

 knife cut so that it will bisect the internal pentagon. In the 

 broader, oblate form, there is usually no external indication 

 except the rather indistinct five sepals to guide the location of 

 the cut. The longer apples are further much better for the study 

 of the vestiges of the stamens, sepals , and style. The little 

 cavity under the sepals is deeper, broader, and the three parts 

 stand out distinctly. It is even possible to count the twenty 

 stamens. 



Apple Varieties and Breeding 



Some twenty years ago I recall reading that there were then 

 over one thousand named varieties of apples. Since then, the 

 numbers have undoubtedly been considerably augmented. 

 Relatively few, however, find their way into city markets but 

 there are enough different types which can be easily obtained 

 during the school year to make apples especially available for 

 studies in variation and classification. 



Posit the problems: How many kinds can you name? 

 What are the distinguishing characteristics? What are the best 

 varieties? The collected material which a single class may bring 

 in will furnish the basis for a good laboratory exercise in which a 

 list of such differential features as the following may be discov- 

 ered : color, and color patterns ; size and shape ; surface, whether 

 with bloom, like the Mcintosh Red, greasy like the Pippin, or 

 not so distinctive; toughness of skin; texture of flesh, whether 

 firm or mealy, juicy or dry; flavor, whether sweet, sour, inter- 

 mediate, or with a special flavor like the Winter Banana. 



The market varieties available will vary according to the 

 season of the year. The collection to be found during the fall 



