Description
Shogun Fuji is a naturally occurring variation of Fuji that keeps everything people love about the original—big sweetness, crisp texture, and juicy flesh—while solving two common challenges: late ripening and uneven color.
You can think of Shogun Fuji as a “shortcut” Fuji. It ripens several weeks earlier than standard Fuji and develops attractive red color more easily, even in regions where fall arrives sooner. The result is a reliably sweet, crunchy apple without needing an extra-long growing season.
The fruit is medium to large with a clean, sweet flavor that kids and adults both love. Shogun Fuji is best enjoyed fresh, straight off the tree, but it also works well for slicing and lunchbox use thanks to its firm texture.
Overview
- Early-ripening Fuji-type apple with classic sweetness
- Crisp, juicy flesh ideal for fresh eating
- Colors better than standard Fuji
- Great choice for regions with shorter or cooler summers
- Requires a compatible apple pollination partner
Growing Details
Latin Name: Malus domestica ’Beni Shogun Fuji’
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil
Chill Requirement: Approximately 500 hours
Hardiness: USDA Zone 4–9
Rootstock: M-106 (semi-dwarf)
Bearing Age: 1–3 years
Size at Maturity: Typically maintained at 12–16 ft tall and wide with pruning
Bloom Time: Mid-season
Ripening Time: Early fall; typically several weeks earlier than standard Fuji (varies by region)
Flowering Group: Group 3 (mid-season)
Pollination: Not self-fertile; requires a compatible apple variety planted within 20–30 feet
Pests & Diseases: Standard apple pest and disease considerations; good airflow and routine care are important
Yield: Reliable and productive once established
Additional Notes
- Grower’s Insight: Shogun Fuji comes from a natural “bud sport”—essentially a happy genetic surprise where one branch grew fruit that ripened earlier and colored better, and growers saved it.
- Regional Insight: Performs especially well in regions like the Pacific Northwest and other cool-summer areas where standard Fuji can struggle to finish before fall weather arrives.
- This variety delivers Fuji sweetness without needing a long, hot growing season.
- Best enjoyed fresh due to its crisp texture and high sugar content.
- Explore more apples in our collection: Apple Trees
