Bramley Apple Malus domestica 'Bramley's Seedling' (C)
ABOUT
The Bramley's Seedling apple tree is known for producing large, rounded fruits that are predominantly green in color with occasional red blushes or stripes when exposed to the sun. The skin of the apple is thick and tough, providing a protective layer for the flesh inside. The apples are known for their tart and tangy flavor which can be too sharp to eat raw for some but mellows upon cooking, making them excellent for baking and making pies, sauces, and ciders. The leaves of the Bramley's Seedling are broad and a vibrant green shade, providing a lush foliage throughout the growing season. Depending on the time of year, you can also expect to see blossoms ranging from white to pale pink, which are not only visually appealing but also attract pollinators such as bees to the garden. The apple tree itself tends to have a spreading growth habit, with branches that can be laden with fruit. It is known for its vigorous growth and can be quite productive under the right conditions. The appearance of the tree through the seasons - from spring blossoms to summer greenery, and heavy with fruit in the fall - makes it a popular choice for both its aesthetic appeal and its culinary uses.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Bramley's Seedling, Bramley, Bramley Apple, Bramley's.
Common names
Malus domestica 'Bramley's Seedling'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as the Bramley apple is considered non-toxic to humans. The fruit of the apple tree is widely consumed and is safe to eat. However, it is important to note that the seeds inside the apples contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide once ingested and metabolized. In large enough quantities, this can cause poisoning, with symptoms that can include headache, dizziness, confusion, anxiety, vomiting, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death. It is, however, very rare for someone to ingest enough apple seeds for cyanide poisoning to occur, as one would have to chew and consume a very large number of apple seeds to experience significant adverse effects.
To pets
The Bramley apple tree is generally considered safe for pets as well. The flesh of the apple is non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. However, similar to humans, the seeds contain amygdalin and can release cyanide when digested. Pets, especially smaller ones, can be more susceptible to the toxic effects due to their size. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, shock, and in extreme cases, collapse and death. Care should be taken to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting apple seeds. It is also noteworthy that the core and stem of the apple can pose a choking hazard or cause gastrointestinal obstruction in pets, so it is best to provide them with only the flesh of the apple, with seeds, core, and stem removed.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)
Spread
12-15 feet (3.7-4.5 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary versatility: This apple variety is particularly well-suited for cooking and baking, maintaining its texture and flavour in pies, sauces, and other dishes.
- High yield: The Bramley apple is known for producing a high volume of fruit, making it ideal for those looking to harvest substantial quantities.
- Long shelf-life: The apples store well, staying fresh for an extended period when kept in cool conditions, reducing waste and preserving quality.
- Pollination benefits: The Bramley apple tree can act as a pollinator for other apple varieties, increasing the productivity of orchards.
- Economic value: As a sought-after cooking apple, the variety has strong commercial demand, benefiting local economies and growers.
- Habitat provision: Like many apple trees, the Bramley provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds and pollinating insects.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its attractive blossoms in spring and vibrant fruit in autumn, the Bramley apple tree adds seasonal beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Community heritage: The Bramley apple has historic significance in certain regions, adding cultural value and identity to communities.
- Educational opportunities: Orchards, including those with Bramley apple trees, can serve as outdoor classrooms for educating about horticulture, agriculture, and the environment.
- Local recreation: Orchards provide spaces for community events and activities, contributing to the social and recreational value of the area.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Dye: The leaves and peel of Bramley's Seedling can be used in natural dye making, offering a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- Woodworking Material: The wood from the Bramley's Seedling tree can be utilized in woodworking projects for crafting small items such as handles for tools, considering the wood's hardness and grain.
- Decorative Branches: Twisted or gnarled branches trimmed from the tree can be used as decorative elements in flower arrangements or as a part of rustic home decor.
- Apple Pomace Fertilizer: After juice extraction, the remaining apple pomace can be composted and used as a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer in gardens.
- Apple Wood Chips for Smoking: Wood chips from Bramley's Seedling apple wood can be used for smoking meats, imparting a subtle fruitwood flavor to the food.
- Plant Growth Stimulant: Fermented apple water, made from excess or damaged Bramley's Seedling apples, can be used to stimulate plant growth when applied as a foliar spray or soil drench.
- Wildlife Habitat: The Bramley's Seedling tree can serve as a natural habitat and food source for various bird species and beneficial insects in the garden.
- Handmade Paper: The fine fibers from the bark and apple pulp can be recycled into handmade paper for crafts or writing.
- Apple Seed Crafts: The seeds of Bramley's Seedling can be cleaned, dried, and used in homemade jewelry or as part of a mosaic artwork.
- Education and Research: Bramley's Seedling can be used for educational purposes, illustrating the lifecycle of fruit trees and the commercial apple cultivation process in agricultural studies.
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- Fertility: Like many apple varieties, the Bramley Apple can symbolize fertility due to its abundant fruit production.
- Knowledge: In many Western cultures, the apple is associated with knowledge and education, as exemplified by the story of Adam and Eve.
- Prosperity: The Bramley Apple, due to its vigorous growth and generous yield, is often seen as a symbol of prosperity and abundance.
- Youthfulness: Apples are commonly linked to youth and vitality because of their fresh, crisp qualities.
- Love and Temptation: The apple's rich history includes associations with love and sensual temptation.
- Peace: Apples can represent peace, as shown in various historical and mythological contexts where an apple is extended as a gesture of harmony.
WaterThe Bramley apple tree needs consistent moisture, especially during its active growth in the spring and summer. It is generally recommended to water the tree once a week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons of water for young trees, and two to four times that amount for mature trees during dry periods. The watering amount should be increased during particularly hot or dry weather. Apply water directly to the base of the tree, extending outwards to the edge of the tree canopy, to ensure the root system receives adequate moisture. It is crucial not to over-water as this can lead to root rot or other diseases.
LightBramley apple trees thrive best in full sunlight where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for planting is in an open area, away from taller trees or buildings that could cast shade on the apple tree. Good sun exposure is key for healthy growth and fruit production.
TemperatureBramley apple trees prefer a temperate climate and are hardy in a range of temperatures. They can tolerate winter cold down to about -20°F, while summer temperatures up to 90°F are typically well-tolerated, though prolonged heat can be stressful. The ideal growing conditions for a Bramley apple tree would be between 60°F and 75°F, which promotes healthy growth and fruiting.
PruningPruning a Bramley apple tree is essential to maintain its health, shape, and to promote better fruit production. Prune in late winter when the tree is dormant. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve light penetration and air flow within the canopy. Aim to open up the center of the tree and keep the branches well-spaced. Annual pruning is recommended, with occasional summer trimming to remove vertical, vigorous growth if necessary.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBramley apple trees require well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A balanced soil mix should include equal parts garden soil, compost, and aged manure to increase fertility. For container-grown trees, a mix of potting soil, loamy garden soil, and sand or perlite to improve drainage is suitable.
RepottingBramley apple trees, when grown as standard trees, do not require repotting as they are usually planted directly into the ground. However, dwarf varieties grown in containers may need repotting every 2 to 3 years to ensure that they have enough space for root growth and access to fresh soil nutrients.
Humidity & MistingBramley apple trees prefer outdoor conditions where humidity is naturally regulated by the environment and typically do not require specific humidity levels to thrive. However, it is crucial to ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suited for indoor growth; requires full sun.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil; water and mulch.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Bramley's Seedling apple tree, commonly known as Bramley's Seedling, begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically after experiencing a cold period that stimulates the breaking of dormancy. The seedling emerges, growing into a small sapling and eventually maturing into a full-sized fruit-bearing tree after several years. During spring, the tree produces blossoms which, if pollinated by bees or other insects, will develop into fruit. Throughout summer, the pollinated flowers mature into apples, which reach full size and ripeness by late summer to autumn. Once the apples are harvested, the tree enters a period of dormancy during the winter months. The cycle repeats each year, with the tree producing new blossoms in the spring, as long as the growth conditions remain favorable for the tree's survival and fruit production.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter-early spring
The most common method of propagating a 'Bramley's Seedling', which is a variety of apple tree, is through grafting. This is a method where the tissues of one plant are encouraged to fuse with those of another. It is ideally performed in late winter or early spring before the bud break, when trees are still dormant. The scion wood, which is a piece of last year's growth from a 'Bramley's Seedling', is cut into lengths of about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) and is then spliced onto a rootstock. The rootstock, typically from a more disease-resistant or hardy variety, determines the size of the tree and its level of resistance. The graft union is securely bound and sealed to prevent drying out and infection. This way, one achieves a tree that combines the desired fruiting qualities of 'Bramley's Seedling' with the hardiness and vigor of the selected rootstock.
