Kiku Apple

Kiku® Apple

Origin & history

Kiku is the consumer brand for a naturally occurring red sport of Fuji (selection Fuji KIKU 8). The sport was identified in 1990 in a Japanese Fuji orchard by the Braun family and propagated/commercialized from South Tyrol, Italy, under the Kiku trademark. Licensed plantings now exist in Europe, the U.S., Chile, and other regions, positioning Kiku as a premium, extra‑sweet Fuji‑type apple.

Appearance

Medium to large, round‑conic. High red to crimson color with fine striping over a yellow‑green ground; thin, smooth skin with pale lenticels. Flesh is cream‑colored, fine‑grained, and very firm.

Flavor & texture

Very sweet (often marketed for elevated °Brix) with low acidity and a clean, honeyed finish. Crisp and juicy, with Fuji‑like density; slices hold texture well.

Best uses

  • Fresh eating and salads (standout sweetness and crunch)
  • Snack boards with cheddar, gouda, prosciutto, and nuts
  • Baking: for a sweeter pie, use alone; for more tang, blend with Granny Smith or Pink Lady®
  • Drying: sugars concentrate well in dehydrated slices

Season & availability

A late‑season harvest (typically October–November in the Northern Hemisphere). Dual‑hemisphere production and strong storability support broad availability through winter and spring.

Storage & handling

Refrigerate at 32–36°F (0–2°C). Like Fuji, Kiku is an excellent keeper, maintaining firmness and sweetness for months; controlled‑atmosphere storage extends life further. Choose heavy, firm fruit with rich red color; avoid bruises and prolonged warm storage.

Nutrition (per 100 g, with skin)

Approximately 52 kcal; ~14 g carbohydrate; 2–3 g dietary fiber; small amounts of vitamin C and potassium—typical of dessert apples.

Quick facts

  • Brand: Kiku®; selection: Fuji KIKU 8 (Fuji sport)
  • Lineage: mutation of Fuji (Fuji = Ralls Janet × Red Delicious)
  • Style: very sweet, low acid; crisp and juicy
  • Best for: snacking, salads, sweet pies (blend for tang), drying
  • Harvest: late season (Oct–Nov, Northern Hemisphere)
  • Storage: excellent keeper in cold/controlled‑atmosphere storage
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