Apple tree named `Caitlin`

Abstract

A new and distinct cultivar of Gala-type apple tree is provided which originated as a partial tree mutation of the `Tenroy` cultivar (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 4,121) growing at Cleveland, Tenn. The new cultivar forms considerably larger fruit that ripens earlier than that of the `Tenroy` cultivar. It also blooms earlier than the `Tenroy` cultivar. The five swollen areas or bumps at the calyx end of the fruit tend to be more pronounced than those of the `Tenroy` cultivar. The tips of the current year's growth tend to be thicker than those of the `Tenroy` cultivar. The leaves tend to be generally smaller and more rigid than those of the `Tenroy` cultivar. Also, the leaf stems tend to be shorter than those of the `Tenroy` cultivar. The fruit is flavorfully mild and of good quality similar to that of the `Tenroy` cultivar.

I claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct cultivar of Gala-type apple tree which exhibits the following combination of characteristics: (a) forms larger fruit than the `Tenroy` cultivar (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 4,121),   (b) forms fruit wherein the five swollen areas at the calyx end of the fruit tend to be more pronounced than those of the `Tenroy` cultivar,   (c) forms blooms earlier and forms fruit that ripens earlier than that of the `Tenroy` cultivar,   (d) forms current-year growth tips that are thicker than those of the `Tenroy` cultivar,   (e) forms generally smaller leaves than the `Tenroy` cultivar that tend to be thicker and more rigid, and   (f) forms leaf stems that tend to be shorter than those of the `Tenroy` cultivar; substantially as herein shown and described.