Apple tree names `Huaguan`

#The present invention comprises a new and distinct variety of apple tree, referred to by the varietal name Huaguan. The English translation of the varietal name Huaguan is `Chinese Champion`.

#The original tree of the new variety was discovered in 1989 in a cultivated area in Zhengzhou, Henan province, People's Republic of China. `Huaguan` is a selection from a controlled cross of `Golden Delicious`.times.`Fuji`. Throughout this description, `Golden Delicious` refers to the unpatented standard `Golden Delicious` variety of apple tree and `Fuji` refers to the unpatented standard `Fuji` variety of apple tree.

#Trees of `Huaguan` were observed at the Washington State University Research Station at Prosser, Wash., and in test plots of the Pacific Northwest Fruit Tester's Association in Selah, Wash., and were compared to `Fuji` trees of similar age.

#FIG. 1 is a view of blossoms of `Huaguan`.

#FIG. 2 is a view of leaves of `Huaguan`.

#FIG. 3 is a view of a tree of `Huaguan` that was planted in 1992 (photograph taken in Feb. 1997).

#The following is a detailed description of the invention based on trees of the Huaguan variety grown under orchard practices at the Washington State University research plot at Prosser, Wash., in a test plot near Proser, Wash., and at a test plot in Selah, Wash. Observations were made from 1994 through 1996. All trees were bearing on the dwarfing `Malling 26` (unpatented variety) rootstock.

#Color references employ terms of ordinary dictionary significance, except where reference is made to The Royal Horticultural Colour Chart (R.H.S.). It should be noted colors do vary depending upon factors such as growing and lighting conditions.

#All trees of the new variety, insofar as I have been able to observe them, are identical in all the characteristics described below.