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🍎 Black Gilliflower – The Apple with a Dark Secret

Step into the world of rare and heirloom fruits with the Black Gilliflower, an apple that immediately catches the eye—and then the palate. Known for its deep, almost black skin and richly aromatic flavour, this unique variety stands out from the usual orchard offerings.

Unlike the glossy reds and greens that fill supermarket shelves, the Black Gilliflower (sometimes called Sheepnose due to its slightly tapered shape) feels like a fruit from another time—dark, distinctive, and full of character.

🌳 A Taste That Surprises

Beneath that dramatic skin lies dense, crisp flesh with a complex, spicy-sweet flavour that intensifies with age. It’s not your everyday eating apple—this one was made for slow savouring, baking, or enjoying on a crisp autumn day with a wedge of sharp cheese.

While it’s firm when first picked, the Black Gilliflower mellows with time, making it excellent for storage and ideal for cooks who love bold, heritage flavours in their pies, cakes, and compotes.

🍏 Did You Know?

The Black Gilliflower is considered a heirloom variety, cherished by orchard keepers and apple collectors.

Its almost-black skin gives it a moody, antique look—but don’t let that fool you; it’s packed with sweetness.

Sometimes called Sheepnose, the apple has a distinctively tapered base.

Its strong, aromatic notes resemble those of clove or gillyflower, a fragrant carnation—that’s likely how it got its name.

Though not easy to find, it’s a favourite among artisanal growers and apple enthusiasts.

🥧 Rustic Beauty on the Plate

Because of its unique flavour and firm flesh, Black Gilliflower is ideal for baking. It holds its shape beautifully in tarts, and its natural spiciness pairs well with cinnamon, nutmeg, and other autumn spices. Whether roasted, stewed, or simply sliced thin, it adds a touch of old-world charm to every dish.

Its dark skin also makes it a visual standout—just a few slices can transform a cheese board or dessert platter into a conversation piece.

✨ In Closing

The Black Gilliflower is more than just an apple—it’s a link to orchard history and a celebration of bold, natural beauty. If you ever come across this nearly black variety, don’t hesitate to take a bite. You’ll discover an apple that’s not only full of flavour, but full of story, too.