Gala (apple)

Gala is a cultivated apple variety originating in New Zealand in the 1930s.

Gala is a cultivated apple variety of the species Malus domestica, originating in New Zealand in the 1930s. It is known for its sweet, mild flavour, crisp texture, and striped or mottled red, orange, and yellow skin. Gala is one of the world’s major commercial apple cultivars and is especially popular in North America.

Origin and development

Gala was bred in New Zealand in the 1930s by J. H. Kidd from a cross between Kidd’s Orange Red and Golden Delicious. It is a clonally propagated apple cultivar. The variety later spread internationally and became a major commercial apple variety.

Characteristics

Gala apples are typically small to medium in size, with a round to conical shape, and striped or mottled skin in red, orange, and yellow colours. The flesh is creamy white to pale yellow, crisp, and aromatic. The flavour is generally described as sweet and mild, with limited tartness.

Cultivation and use

Gala is widely grown in many apple-producing regions because it performs well commercially and can be supplied year-round from northern and southern hemisphere orchards. It is commonly sold as a fresh-eating apple but is also used in salads, cooking, drying, and cider blends.

Commercial importance

Gala is one of the best-known modern apple cultivars and is especially prominent in supermarket produce sections. Its popularity comes from its flavour, attractive appearance, and reliable market supply. Gala is one of the most popular apple varieties in North America, including Canada, and is widely sold in Canadian grocery stores and orchards.