the apple is noted for its particularly small to medium size (ca. 6–8 cm), when compared to other apples like the macintosh. it is an exceptionally hard apple and would remain remarkably free from blemishes and other blights with few pesticides being needed. because of its hardness it shipped well without bruising and for a time was prized for this quality. aside from cider making it was also known as an exceptionally good pie apple and due to its hardness would maintain more crispness through the baking than other apples would.