This is a small, cold-hardy tree that is upright-spreading. Somewhat resistant to all major diseases, it is a great choice for the adventurous organic orchardist or for a backyard gardener. The only significant issue with Hudson's Golden Gem is that the fruit tends to crack for the first few years. The tree will grow out of this, and the end product is worth waiting it out.

Hudson's Golden Gem is large, elongated, and often lopsided or so top heavy that it looks like an upside-down pear. The light-bronze russeting opens to a base of green, yellow, or red, and the flesh is very sweet and crunchy. Tasters consistently compare this apple to a Bosc pear, and it was, in fact, originally sold as a pear. The fruit hangs well on the tree, does not bruise easily, and is a great keeper. This is one of the best russets available.

Found in a fencerow in Oregon, Hudson's Golden Gem was thought to be a seedling of Golden Delicious. DNA testing has identified Yellow Bellflower and American Golden Russet as its parents. It was first brought to market by A. D. Hudson of Hudson's Wholesale Nurseries of Oregon in 1931.