Apple tree named ‘MAIA8’

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of apple tree was identified from a population of seedlings derived from a cross of ‘Goldrush’ and ‘Sweet 16’. The new variety, named ‘MAIA8’, is distinct from ‘Goldrush’ as ‘MAIA8’ ripens late-September, 5 weeks before ‘Goldrush’. Unlike ‘Goldrush’, ‘MAIA8’ has scarlet red skin (R.H.S. Colour Chart Red-Purple Group 60B). While ‘Goldrush’ will keep for more than 20 weeks in normal 35° F. storage, ‘MAIA8’ will only keep for approximately 10 weeks in normal 35° F. storage. ‘MAIA8’ is distinct from ‘Sweet 16’ as ‘MAIA8’ is much more precocious, setting fruit in the first year of planting. ‘Sweet 16’ typically does not set fruit until 2 years after planting. The fruit of ‘MAIA8’ adheres to the tree for approximately 6-7 weeks past fruit maturity, while ‘Sweet 16’ fruit will abscise from the tree within 2 weeks of maturity. ‘MAIA8’ fruit are medium sized, crisp, with unique and complex sweet-tart flavor with peach, pear, and strawberry flavor tones.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A new, distinct variety of apple tree named ‘MAIA8’, as illustrated and described herein.