Today I headed off to Mount Desert Island to assess the condition of a very old apple tree at an equally old estate. I’ve been to see the tree a number of times over the years, the first being in 2010. In all likelihood the tree is a seedling and well over 150 years old. Maybe 200 or more.

What are apparently the original trunks are still quite present though long since dead and laying on the ground in multiple directions. The current iteration of the tree consists of a dozen younger trunks—themselves all extremely old—that rise and twist and turn and curve and plunge into the ground in several spots and then rise up again to twist and turn some more. The canopy is nearly 75 feet across, 300 feet in circumference and yet only about 15 feet high. Within that space has developed an entire eco-system. Its amazing. Mesmerizing.

I took photos and samples of the fruit and foliage, and measurements of the shoot growth. I explored the tree (it’s that big) and mostly just felt awestruck by its age, its beauty its regality and its longevity. This is the type of apple tree that should be in the genetics of the apples of the future. It’s seen it all, and its been through every conceivable challenge. It’s got what it takes.

On the way back to Palermo, we took time to check out a few seedlings (it’s fall). We also stopped to pick apples from the original Fuel Service tree in Penobscot. It’s a favorite bittersweet seedling. It’s small and nondescript and won’t win any awards for majesty, but it make a good cider.