Apple, Cultivated Apple (Malus domestica)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Malus, Species: M. domestica · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Malus domestica
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Elliptical to ovate with an acute apex
Size
Approximately 2 to 4 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide, typical for a mature apple tree leaf
Margin
Finely serrate (toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green on the upper surface, paler green with slight pubescence on the lower surface; reddish tinge visible on the petioles and midrib
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and branching lateral veins
Texture & Surface
Slightly rough to touch with a matte finish on top and soft hairiness underneath
Description
The apple tree is a deciduous small-to-medium sized tree featuring a rounded crown, gnarly branching, simple alternate leaves, fragrant white-to-pink spring blossoms, and nutritious pome fruit ripening in late summer or autumn
Key Features
Finely serrate margins, elliptical shape, alternate arrangement, reddish petioles, and pubescent lower leaf surfaces
Habitat
Temperated regions with full sun exposure, well-draining loamy soils, and a need for winter chilling hours
Geographic Range
Native to Central Asia (Tian Shan mountains), now cultivated globally in temperate zones worldwide
Condition Notes
Fair condition; visible brown necrotic spots and minor lesions on some leaves, indicative of fungal leaf spot or scab
Interesting Facts
Apples belong to the rose family and are distantly related to strawberries, pears, and roses; they display a phenomenon known as autoincompatibility, requiring cross-pollination to fruit
Medicinal & Uses
Edible fruit rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants; wood used occasionally for smoking meats and turning; trees widely used in commercial agriculture and ornamental gardening
Ecological Role
Provides vital nectar sources for early spring pollinators and serves as a major food source for various mammals and birds; highly integrated into agricultural ecosystems
Similar Species
Crabapple (Malus spp.) which generally has smaller fruit and leaves, and Pear (Pyrus spp.) which has glossier, more leathery leaves with rounded teeth
Foraging Tips
Look for orchards or abandoned homesteads; identify by the alternating simple leaves with fine teeth and reddish leaf stalks on woody perennial trees
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic leaves and flesh, but the seeds (pips) contain amygdalin, which releases cyanide when digested in large quantities; rated as Non-toxic for the plant overall