James Grieve derives from the mid Victorian period where cultivating different varieties of market apples had its vogue. When first picked, it is acidic, but with proper storage can sweeten and become rather more mild. The flesh of a James Grieve apple is comparable to a firm pear. In appearance, the apple has an attractive red flush and satin like sheen. They are slightly larger than average, with a slightly oval shape. James Grieve is a parent of Lord Lambourne, Katy and Greensleeves amongst others. Its own parentage is obscure, but Cox's Orange Pippin and Pott's Seedling are possible candidates.