Malus domestica 'Belle de Boskoop' (C/d)
ABOUT
'Belle de Boskoop' is a variety of apple that is known for its distinctive fruits and growth habits, reflecting characteristics that make it both ornamental and productive in certain settings. The plant develops into a spreading shape with branches that can arch gracefully. Its leaves are broad, with a slightly wrinkled surface, and typically a lush green color, which turns into rich golden hues come autumn. The flowers that blossom are a striking sight, usually emerging as clusters of pink-tinged white blossoms. These blooms are not only attractive but are also a valuable source of nectar for pollinators, contributing to the overall health of the garden ecosystem. Fruits of the 'Belle de Boskoop' are particularly noteworthy. They tend to be large with a robust, slightly flattened shape and a skin that is greenish-yellow with red flushes and stripes. The apple's skin surface can sometimes have a rough, russet texture, which adds to its rustic appearance. On the inside, the flesh is firm, tart, and aromatic, making it versatile for both fresh consumption and culinary uses such as baking or making cider. The overall appearance of the 'Belle de Boskoop' is that of a classic apple variety with a blend of ornamental beauty and practical fruit production, minus the specifics of its size, which can vary.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Belle de Boskoop Apple, Boskoop Apple
Common names
Malus domestica 'Belle de Boskoop'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question is commonly known as the apple tree. The apple tree itself is not toxic to humans. However, all parts of the apple tree except for the fruit pulp contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide once metabolized. The seeds, if crushed or chewed in significant quantities, can be particularly hazardous due to this compound. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning from ingesting large amounts of apple seeds may include headache, dizziness, confusion, increased blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and potentially can lead to coma or death. Eating an occasional apple seed is unlikely to cause harm due to the small amount of amygdalin they contain, but it is advisable to avoid consuming large quantities of seeds.
To pets
The common apple tree is not toxic to pets in general when it comes to the flesh of the fruit. However, similar to humans, the seeds contain amygdalin which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. If a pet were to eat a considerable number of apple seeds, it could suffer from cyanide poisoning. The symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets may include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, shock, and in severe cases, it can be fatal. It's important to keep apple cores and seeds away from pets to prevent accidental ingestion of these potentially toxic parts.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
12-15 feet (3.7-4.6 meters)
Spread
10-14 feet (3-4.3 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Nutritious Fruit: Belle de Boskoop apples are high in vitamins and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet.
- Backyard Orchard: Ideal for planting in personal orchards due to its relatively easy care and productive nature.
- Pollination: Acts as a good pollinator for other apple varieties, increasing their fruit yield.
- Culinary Versatility: The fruit can be used in cooking and baking, known for holding shape and adding a tangy flavor.
- Landscape Aesthetics: Adds aesthetic value to a landscape with its beautiful spring blossoms and vibrant fall fruit.
- Wildlife Support: Provides food for birds and other wildlife when fruits are left unharvested.
- Shade and Shelter: Offers shade in the summer and can act as a windbreak or privacy screen.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant effects: Contains polyphenols and flavonoids that may help reduce oxidative stress.
- Dietary fiber: Promotes digestive health and can aid in the prevention of constipation.
- Vitamin C: Supports immune system function and skin health.
- Potassium: May contribute to maintaining normal blood pressure levels.
- Quercetin: A flavonol that might have anti-inflammatory properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Belle de Boskoop apples can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of earthy tones depending on the mordant used.
- The tannins in the apple skins can be utilized to produce plant-based inks for art or traditional writing purposes.
- Apple wood from pruning can be fashioned into smoking chips to impart a sweet, fruity flavor to smoked meats and cheeses.
- Dried slices of Belle de Boskoop apples can be used to create decorative garlands and wreaths for festive occasions.
- Apple pectin, extracted from the fruit, is a natural thickening agent for jams, jellies, and desserts.
- The intense tartness and robust flavor of these apples work well in chutneys and savory sauces accompanying pork or poultry.
- Fallen leaves from the apple tree can be collected and added to compost piles as a source of carbon for soil enrichment.
- Apple branches can be repurposed into rustic home decor items, such as picture frames or candle holders.
- The Belle de Boskoop apples, when dehydrated and ground, can create a flavor-packed apple powder used in spice rubs or baking.
- Residual apple pomace from juicing can be used in homemade skincare products like scrubs or masks for its mild acidic properties.
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- Knowledge and Wisdom: As an apple variety, 'Belle de Boskoop' apples, like all apples, have strong connections to knowledge and wisdom, often associated with the Biblical story of Adam and Eve and the apple from the Tree of Knowledge.
- Health and Vitality: Apples are commonly symbolized as being healthy ("an apple a day keeps the doctor away") promoting a message of vitality and well-being.
- Love and Fertility: In some cultures, apples are seen as a symbol of love and fertility, possibly due to their lush, round shape and the many seeds they contain.
- Peace and Harmony: Presenting someone with an apple can be a sign of peace or the desire for harmony, likely due to the fruit’s universal appeal and enjoyment.
WaterThe Belle de Boskoop apple tree requires deep watering to encourage a strong root system, especially during dry spells. Throughout the growing season, water the tree once a week with about 1.5 to 2 gallons of water, but adjust the frequency depending on rainfall, as overwatering can be detrimental. During the winter months when the tree is dormant, watering can be reduced. Ensure that the water penetrates deeply into the soil by watering at the base of the tree rather than from overhead, which can prevent fungal diseases that might arise from moisture on the leaves.
LightThe Belle de Boskoop apple tree thrives in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and fruit production. Planting the tree in a location with southern or western exposure will ensure that it receives sufficient light. Avoid planting in shaded areas, as this can reduce fruit yield and affect overall tree health.
TemperatureThe Belle de Boskoop apple tree can withstand winter temperatures as low as -20°F and is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8. It prefers a climate where there is a distinct winter season as it needs a period of cold to break dormancy and produce fruit. The ideal growing temperature for the tree during the growing season ranges from 60°F to 75°F.
PruningPrune the Belle de Boskoop apple tree to maintain its shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and to encourage better air circulation and sunlight penetration, which are vital for fruit production. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any crossing branches and thin out the canopy to ensure healthy growth. Depending on the growth, pruning may be necessary annually or once every few years.
CleaningAs needed
SoilApple trees, including Belle de Boskoop, thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. A good soil mix for planting would include equal parts of garden soil, compost, and aged manure or leaf mold to ensure fertility and drainage.
RepottingThe Belle de Boskoop apple tree, like other apple varieties, is typically not repotted as it is grown outdoors. Instead, the tree may be transplanted to a larger space if necessary, usually during dormancy in late winter or early spring.
Humidity & MistingThe Belle de Boskoop apple tree prefers outdoor conditions where humidity is naturally regulated. Humidity levels specific for this tree are not critical; however, average outdoor humidity is generally suitable.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Belle de Boskoop apples indoors with ample light and space.
Outdoor
Plant Belle de Boskoop apple in full sun, fertile soil, and space for roots.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Malus domestica 'Belle de Boskoop', commonly known as the Belle de Boskoop apple tree, begins with seed germination in a suitable environment, typically requiring stratification to break dormancy. Seedlings emerge and develop into juvenile trees, which grow vegetatively for several years before reaching maturity and can take between 4 to 8 years to produce their first fruits. As mature trees, they enter a yearly cycle of growth, flowering in the spring with pollination facilitated by bees and other insects. After pollination, fruits develop over the summer, usually ripening by late fall, at which point they are harvested. Trees can continue to yield fruit annually for many decades if properly cared for. Once the tree's productivity declines, it eventually dies or may be removed to make way for new plantings, returning nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter
The common name for Malus domestica 'Belle de Boskoop' is the Belle de Boskoop apple and it is typically propagated by grafting, which is the most popular method for this plant. Grafting involves taking a scion, or a young shoot, from the desired apple tree with the required characteristics and joining it to a rootstock that is sturdily rooted and disease-resistant. This is usually done in late winter or early spring before the buds start to swell. The scion, which is approximately 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long, is cut at a diagonal and fixed to a similarly angled cut on the rootstock. The two pieces are then fastened together using grafting tape or a similar material to hold them in place until the graft heals and the tissues fuse together, which usually takes a few weeks to months depending on the conditions. Grafting not only ensures that the characteristics of the 'Belle de Boskoop' apple are preserved but also allows for the creation of trees that are better adapted to specific local conditions.
