EUROPE - Something new is happening in the apple category, as the Hot Climate Partnership is set to unveil an early-season apple variety specifically bred for hot and warming climates, STELLAR™. The launch will take place at Fruit Attraction in Madrid.

“As temperatures increase around the world, apples can mature too quickly, with the heat also impacting the color, texture, and yield,” said Morgan Rogers, General Manager, VentureFruit®. “Innovations such as the development of STELLAR are essential to provide growers with new variety options, specifically bred for hot and warming climates, which ensures consumers can still enjoy apples with great taste, texture, and appearance.”

Also known by its variety name ‘HOT81A1,’ STELLAR is a product of more than 20 years of natural breeding and scientific development, and the second varietal release from the Hot Climate Partnership, a press release explained. Growers interested in purchasing and planting STELLAR are encouraged to reach out to IFO directly. Ultimately, STELLAR will be available to growers worldwide with the initial release focused in Europe and territories where plant material is available.

“We are confident in this new early variety, which has consistently tested well for both taste and appearance under a wide range of climate conditions, and are thrilled to be able to offer STELLAR apple trees through an open tree release model, ensuring that more growers can benefit from its exceptional qualities,” said Bruno Essner, Managing Director, IFO. “This offers growers flexibility as they can purchase STELLAR apple trees and brand the fruit under their own choice of marketing name.”

Based in France, IFO is a leading private company with a global reach, specializing in the research and development of new apple and pear varieties and rootstocks.

“Stellar has dual definitions, meaning both ‘of the stars’ and ‘superb’ or ‘outstanding’. This name highlights the variety’s ability to thrive in hot and warming climates and deliver outstanding color and yield, making it a stellar choice for both growers and consumers,” added Morgan. “Each variety from the Hot Climate Partnership brings unique benefits and strengths. These first two varieties complement each other by addressing different grower needs, such as pricing and seasonal availability.”

Following the release of STELLAR apple trees, the partnership has shortlisted two further varieties—both of which have also been specifically bred to be tolerant of hot and warming climates. Commercialization is anticipated in 2025.

The Hot Climate Partnership has an extensive pipeline of 13 apple and six pear varieties that are completing their final years of evaluation and testing.

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