Gemma has become our favourite apple for fresh eating in May. Actually, very few varieties can come out of regular cold storage at that point even looking edible, let alone retaining any firm, crisp character. This burly, jumbo apple is arguably also the biggest one in our collection. Gemma was selected by Richard Fahey of Singing Tree Orchard in Oxford, NY, and named after his granddaughter. He says it is a naturally occurring mutation of Roxbury Russet, although he concedes it almost seems like an entirely different apple. It is twice the size, has practically no russet, and is also sweeter. Gemma has earned a place on Richard's list 'The 30 Best Apples', meaning they are reliable, low maintenance trees, with few insect and disease problems. With Gemma, we find no reason to dispute his opinion.