Named for its dark skin color, the Black Diamond apple breaks the red-and-green rules for most of the apples we see and eat. Though you might think this fruit resembles something from a fairy tale, we can assure you that black apples are real and safe to eat. They come from the Hua Niu—or Chinese Red Delicious—apple family, and although they don’t look like your normal Gala or Honeycrisp, black apples offer a crunch that’s sweeter than your standard varietal.
-What Is a Black Diamond Apple?
This variation of apple is easily recognized by its distinct dark skin, which isn’t actually black, but a deep purple. The bold color is due to the dramatic temperature changes in the growing climate. Black Diamond apples receive large amounts of ultraviolet light exposure during the day, with extreme temperature drops at night. The result? A beautiful fruit with dark skin and a bright white pulp.
-How Much Is a Black Diamond Apple?
The environment for growing Black Diamond apples is harsh, and it’s tough on the farmers who tend to them. Because of the mountainous climate, the seven to eight years it takes for Black Diamond apple trees to mature and the fact that they grow within a very limited time window, black apples are available for only about two months every year. You can expect them to be much pricier than what you’ll find from your local grocer.
Often, Black Diamond apples are only sold in high-end supermarkets in Asia, with individual fruits selling for between $7 and $20.
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