Malus domestica

The common apple is a deciduous tree with edible fruit in the rose family (Rosaceae). It is native to Central Asia and Afghanistan, but is now grown worldwide for its crisp, crunchy fruit that can be eaten raw or cooked in a variety of dishes. Cider is another valuable product from the fruits. Many cultivars exist with differences in color, flavor and recommended food use. 

Apples are generally easy to grow and tolerate a variety of soils. Grow in full sun to partial shade. They will need a regular spraying program to prevent disease and pest damage. Although they grow up to 30 feet tall and wide from seed, many apple trees you can buy are grafted with dwarfing rootstocks, so they maintain a much smaller size. Cultivars have different chilling hour requirements, so be sure to choose the right one for your area. Most apple cultivars produce better if another, co-blossoming variety or species is planted nearby to serve as a pollen donor (pollinizer). 

Plant this tree in an edible garden or as a flowering specimen in a lawn or meadow.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: A wide range of pests and diseases can affect this tree. Three of the more common diseases or pests are mildew, aphids, and apple scab. Other diseases are fire blight and black spot. Other pests are codling moths and apple maggots. The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common apple and crab apple diseases and other plant problems.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, and Nuts" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.