Alkmene apple Malus domestica 'Alkmene' (D)
ABOUT
The plant commonly referred to as the 'Alkmene' apple tree is known for its attractive and productive qualities. It bears a profusion of flowers which are typically white with a slight pinkish hue that emerge in spring. These blossoms are a beautiful sight and are quite aromatic, inviting various pollinators to the garden. Following the flowering period, the plant develops fruit which starts out green and matures into a beautiful red with yellow undertones when ripe. The apples are known for their crisp texture and a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making them a favorite among apple enthusiasts. These fruits are typically round to slightly conical in shape, with a smooth and shiny skin that is appealing both on the tree and in a fruit bowl. The leaves of this plant are a vibrant green, providing a lush background for the white flowers and the striking fruits. They are broad, with a slightly serrated edge, and form a dense canopy which offers shade and visual interest. While I won't mention specific measurements, it's important to note that the plant has a well-structured branching pattern that supports the fruit and allows for air circulation, which is beneficial for the overall health of the tree and the ripening of the apples. Throughout the seasons, this plant presents a changing palette that is delightful to observe, from the spring blossoms to the summer leaves and fruit, and often into striking fall foliage that adds another layer of beauty to the garden. Its presence in a landscape brings not only visual pleasure but also a practical bounty in the form of delicious, home-grown apples.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Alkmene Apple, Early Windsor.
Common names
Malus domestica 'Alkmene'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question is commonly known as the apple tree. The apple tree itself is not toxic to humans; in fact, its fruits are widely consumed around the world. However, the seeds of the apple contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when digested. Eating an extremely large number of apple seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning, though this is rare due to the small amount of amygdalin present in each seed. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning can include headache, dizziness, confusion, shortness of breath, and potentially can lead to coma or death if a sufficient quantity is ingested. Again, it is important to note that one would need to consume a very large number of seeds for poisoning to occur, and the fruit's flesh is perfectly safe to eat.
To pets
The apple tree is also known as the common name for Malus domestica 'Alkmene'. When it comes to pets, the main concern for toxicity are the seeds, which like for humans, contain amygdalin that can convert into cyanide when digested. Eating a considerable amount of apple seeds may cause cyanide poisoning in pets, although the risk is more significant for small animals due to their smaller body size. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, shock, and in severe cases, death. It is advised to keep apple seeds away from pets and to consult a veterinarian if a pet has consumed a worrisome quantity of them. The flesh of the apple, however, is often given to pets in moderation as a treat without the core and seeds.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters)
Spread
12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Fruit Production: The Alkmene apple tree is a prolific fruit producer, yielding apples that are valued for their sweet and tangy flavor.
- Aesthetic Appeal: With its attractive blossoms in spring and colorful fruit in autumn, it enhances the visual beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Shade and Shelter: This medium-sized tree provides shade and shelter for outdoor areas, making them more enjoyable during sunny and rainy weather.
- Wildlife Habitat: The Alkmene apple tree offers habitat and food sources for birds and pollinators like bees and butterflies during its flowering season.
- Culinary Uses: The apples from Alkmene are versatile, perfect for eating fresh as well as for baking, cooking, and making cider.
- Local Food Source: Growing this apple variety contributes to local food sustainability and can reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food.
- Educational Value: Gardening with apple trees like Alkmene can serve as an educational tool, teaching about plant life cycles, horticulture, and the importance of pollinators.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Apple fruit, including that of Malus domestica 'Alkmene', contains phytochemicals such as quercetin, catechins, and chlorogenic acid which have antioxidant properties.
- Dietary fiber content: Apples are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help with digestive health.
- Cardiovascular health: The fiber and polyphenol compounds found in apples are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Weight management: Apples can be a component of a weight management diet, as they are low in calories and provide a sense of satiety.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wood Crafting: The dense wood of the apple tree is often used in the creation of small woodcrafts, such as bowls, carvings, and utensils.
- Floral Displays: Apple tree branches, especially when blossoming, can be used as part of floral arrangements or decorative displays in events.
- Photography Prop: The scenic blossoms and fruit of the apple tree can serve as an attractive backdrop or subject in photography.
- Natural Dyes: The bark and leaves of the apple tree can be used to make natural dyes for fabric or art projects.
- Food Smoking: Applewood is commonly used in smoking food, especially meats, to add a sweet, fruity flavor.
- Education and Research: Apple trees like Alkmene may be used in educational settings for studies on botany, genetics, and fruit cultivation techniques.
- Bird Habitat: Apple trees can provide shelter and food for various bird species, contributing to biodiversity.
- Traditional Crafts: In some cultures, apple tree branches are used for traditional crafts like weaving or making small hand-held tools.
- Insectary Plant: Planting apple trees can attract beneficial insects, such as bees for pollination and predatory insects to help manage pests.
- Children's Play: Young apple trees or pruned branches can be used in constructing natural play structures for children.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Apple tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Apple tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Desire: As alkmene apple, which hails from the Malus domestica species, is often associated with love and temptation due to the fruit's prominent role in the biblical story of Adam and Eve.
- Knowledge and Wisdom: Apples are symbolic of knowledge and enlightenment, in part because of the same biblical associations, where the apple represents the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge.
- Youth and Beauty: Alkmene apples, with their fresh and appealing appearance, are also reminiscent of themes of youth and beauty, much as is seen in various myths where apples grant eternal youth or are offered as prizes for beauty.
- Fertility and Abundance: Apples as a fruit-bearing tree are seen as a symbol of fertility and abundance, relating to the bountiful harvest that an apple tree can provide.
- Peace and Unity: Because it is sometimes used as a diplomatic gift, an apple can represent the offering of peace or the bringing together of people.
WaterThe common name for Malus domestica 'Alkmene' is apple tree and it should be watered deeply to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, watering should take place every week or two, with at least 5 gallons per session for young trees, increasing to 10-15 gallons for mature trees. The frequency of watering must be adjusted based on rainfall; less water is needed if there is ample rain. During fall and winter, reduce watering as the tree goes dormant. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid over-saturation.
LightApple trees, including the 'Alkmene' variety, thrive in full sun conditions. They require at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight every day. The tree should be planted in a location where it is exposed to unobstructed sunlight, away from tall buildings or shade-casting trees. The best spot for this tree is a southern or western exposure in the garden where it can receive the maximum amount of sunlight.
TemperatureApple trees like the 'Alkmene' prefer a temperate climate with chill hours for fruit set. They can generally tolerate winter temperatures down to about -20°F and are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8. The ideal growing temperatures for apple trees range between 60°F and 75°F. While they can withstand brief periods of higher temperatures during summer, prolonged heat can be stressful for the tree.
PruningPruning apple trees, including the 'Alkmene' variety, is important to encourage healthy growth, improve air circulation, and increase fruit production. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before the tree breaks dormancy. Thin out the canopy by removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches. The best time for major pruning is when the tree is dormant, although light pruning can be done anytime as needed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilApple trees like the 'Alkmene' variety prefer well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A good mix would consist of garden loam, peat moss, and compost in equal parts to provide nutrients and proper drainage.
RepottingYoung 'Alkmene' apple trees may need repotting annually to encourage growth. Mature trees are typically not repotted but may need soil replenishment or to be planted out.
Humidity & Misting'Alkmene' apple trees are adaptable to a wide range of outdoor humidity levels and do not require specific humidity conditions when grown in their natural outdoor setting.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not ideal for indoor growing; requires full sun, pruning, and space.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and space for roots and canopy.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Malus domestica 'Alkmene', commonly known as the Alkmene apple, starts with seed germination, where the seed absorbs water and sprouts roots and a shoot. After seedling emergence, the plant enters a juvenile vegetative state, characterized by the growth of roots, stems, and leaves, establishing itself as a young tree. As the tree matures, it undergoes a transition to the adult vegetative stage, where it develops a more substantial trunk, branching canopy, and the first signs of dormant buds that will become flowers. The reproductive phase follows, with the tree producing blossoms that, once pollinated by insects such as bees, will develop into fruits—the apples. After fruit set, apples grow to full size and ripen on the branches before they are harvested. Finally, in the post-harvest period, the tree enters a dormant phase in colder climates, conserving energy for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter-early spring
The most popular method of propagation for the apple variety Malus domestica 'Alkmene' is through grafting, particularly during late winter or early spring. In grafting, a scion (a small branch or bud) from the 'Alkmene' apple is joined to the rootstock of another apple tree variety that has been selected for characteristics like hardiness and resistance to pests. The scion is carefully cut at an angle to expose a good amount of cambium, the layer just beneath the bark, and then matched to a similarly cut surface on the rootstock. These cut surfaces are bound tightly together using grafting tape or a similar material and sealed with grafting wax to prevent drying out. The graft is then left to heal and fuse over the course of several weeks, during which time the scion begins to grow using the rootstock's established root system.
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