South Africa is one of the world’s leading apple producers and exporters, known for premium-quality fruit grown in ideal Mediterranean climates. From crisp green apples to sweet red favorites, South African orchards produce a wide variety of apples suited for both local markets and international exporting
Most apples are grown in:
Western Cape (Ceres, Grabouw, Elgin, Villiersdorp)
Eastern Cape (Langkloof)
Limpopo (Levubu region)
These regions provide the cool winters and warm summers needed to produce firm, flavorful apples with excellent color development.
🍏 Granny Smith
Colour: Bright green
Taste: Tart, crisp, refreshing
Texture: Firm and juicy
Best For: Baking, cooking, salads, juicing
Granny Smith is one of South Africa’s most exported apple varieties. Its strong structure and long shelf life make it ideal for international markets and extended storage.
Typical Export Sizes: 100 – 165
Diameter Range: ± 70mm – 90mm
🍎 Royal Gala
Colour: Red with yellow stripes
Taste: Sweet and aromatic
Texture: Fine and crisp
Best For: Fresh eating, lunchboxes
Royal Gala apples are widely loved in the South African retail market because of their sweetness and attractive striped appearance.
Typical Export Sizes: 113 – 165
Diameter Range: ± 68mm – 85mm
🍎 Cripps Pink (Pink Lady®)
Colour: Bright pink to red
Taste: Sweet with balanced acidity
Texture: Firm and crisp
Best For: Premium retail, fresh consumption
Cripps Pink apples are marketed globally as Pink Lady® and are considered a premium variety due to their flavour balance and attractive colour.
Typical Export Sizes: 113 – 150
Diameter Range: ± 70mm – 85mm
🍎 Golden Delicious
Colour: Yellow to golden
Taste: Mildly sweet
Texture: Tender and juicy
Best For: Sauces, baking, fresh eating
Golden Delicious apples are versatile and widely grown across South Africa for both export and processing.
Typical Export Sizes: 100 – 165
Diameter Range: ± 70mm – 90mm