Introducing Apple Rainbow “ERICS RAINBOW™”

Introducing Apple Rainbow “ERICS RAINBOW™”, A Strikingly Unique New Apple Variety Set to Shine at BBC Gardeners’ World Live.

A true natural spectacle, from leaf to bark to fruit, this is the most visually arresting apple ever introduced to British gardens.

This June, visitors to BBC Gardeners’ World Live in Birmingham will be the first of the UK public to witness the Apple Rainbow, a truly one-of-a-kind apple variety that combines beauty, biodiversity and bold flavour.

Bred by brothers Milan and Marijan Prepelic in Croatia, Apple Rainbow is unlike anything seen in traditional orchards. Its striped, multicoloured bark, variegated leaves with golden splashes, and green-pink-red skin set it apart immediately. But it’s not just a pretty face, this apple is designed for gardeners, foodies and wildlife alike.

“We’ve never seen an apple like this before, it’s genuinely a showstopper in the garden,” says Steph Dunn James, Fourth Generation for Frank P Matthews Trees “Every part of this tree is ornamental, its bark, leaves, blossom and of course, the fruit. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to grow something joyful, sustainable and delicious.”

Key Features of Apple Rainbow

Late-harvest fruit with striking red skin and green and pink stripes

Snow-white, non-browning flesh – ideal for fresh salads and cooking

Crisp, tart taste mellowing to a subtle sweetness from January to April

Variegated foliage with golden-centred leaves

Striped bark and ornamental flowers – a multi-seasonal visual delight

Excellent wildlife value – bees love the blossom and birds enjoy leftover fruit

Available on a range of rootstocks – including dwarfing types for patio pots.

This apple will be available to home gardeners online here, The Frank P Matthews Tree Shop in Tenbury Wells and from Garden Centre stockists from August 2025 onwards.

A Tree for the Garden and the Kitchen

Apple Rainbow’s appeal spans beyond the orchard, interiors and garden lovers will value it for its year-round beauty, while cooks and families will appreciate its long shelf life and clean, crisp flavour and aromatic scent. It makes a great stewed apple with smells of classic apple pie.

A Nature-Friendly Choice

With pollinator-friendly blossom and fruit that can feed garden birds over winter, Apple Rainbow also aligns with growing interest in biodiversity-friendly gardening.

Meet Apple Rainbow in person at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, where it will be showcased as part of Frank P Matthews Stand, located E282. Apple Rainbow will also be contending for the coveted Peter Seabrook Award for Best New Plant Award –  ‘Hot off the Potting Bench’ at the show – Hot Off the Potting Bench at BBC Gardeners’ World Live