Dabinett Apple Malus domestica 'Dabinett' (Cider)
ABOUT
The 'Dabinett' apple is a variety of apple tree that is specifically cultivated for producing cider. The tree is known for its vigor and possesses strong, sturdy branches with an overarching habit, giving it a rounded shape. During the spring, the 'Dabinett' is adorned with an attractive display of blossoms. These flowers are typically white, with hints of pink, and they emerge in clusters, offering not only a visual appeal but also attracting pollinators such as bees. Foliage on the 'Dabinett' apple tree is dense, with leaves that are medium to dark green in color. The leaves have a classic apple leaf shape—oval with a somewhat elongated tip and serrated edges. These leaves turn shades of yellow and gold during the fall, providing a seasonal show. The apples produced by the 'Dabinett' are medium-sized and are known for their distinct, full-bodied flavor which is ideal for cider making. The skin of the fruit is usually a deep, greenish-yellow when ripe, often with a reddish-orange blush covering a portion of the apple. The flesh inside is firm, juicy, and creamy in color. The fruit is typically harvested in late autumn and is celebrated for its high sugar content, balanced with a sharp acidity, making it an excellent choice for creating a rich and complex cider. While used mainly for cider, these apples can also be eaten fresh or used in cooking, although their flavor is best realized in fermented beverages. The 'Dabinett' apple is sought after by cider makers and is considered one of the classic English cider apples.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Dabinett Apple, Dabinett Cider Apple
Common names
Malus domestica 'Dabinett'.
ToxicityTo humans
Apple trees, including the 'Dabinett' variety used for cider, are not toxic to humans when it comes to their fruits. However, it's important to note that the seeds of apples contain amygdalin, a compound that can release small amounts of cyanide when digested. Ingesting very large quantities of apple seeds could lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, anxiety, and potentially more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and increased heart rate. Eating a few apple seeds inadvertently is generally considered safe, but consuming them in very large amounts could be harmful.
To pets
Apple trees, including the 'Dabinett' variety, are generally considered to be non-toxic to pets when it comes to the flesh of the fruit. The primary concern, similar to humans, lies in the seeds, which contain amygdalin that can release cyanide upon digestion. If a pet ingests a small number of seeds, it is unlikely to cause harm. However, consuming a large quantity of apple seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning in pets, with symptoms such as salivation, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and shock. While the risk is low, it is best to keep apple seeds away from pets to avoid any potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
12-15 feet (3.6-4.6 meters)
Spread
10-14 feet (3-4.2 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Produces cider apples - The 'Dabinett' variety is specifically cultivated for its high-quality apples used in cider production, offering a bittersweet flavor which is ideal for traditional ciders.
- Attractive blossoms - In spring, the trees are adorned with beautiful blossoms that not only add aesthetic value to the surroundings but also attract pollinators such as bees.
- Shade provider - As a medium-sized tree, it can provide a comfortable shade, making it a valuable addition to gardens and parks for its cooling effects.
- Habitat for wildlife - The tree supports biodiversity by providing a habitat for various species, including birds and beneficial insects.
- Ornamental value - Aside from its utility in cider production, it also serves as an ornamental tree due to its pleasing form and foliage.
- Seasonal Interest - Offers year-round interest from the spring blossoms to the fruits in autumn and the bare architectural form in winter.
- Local Economy Support - Cultivation of 'Dabinett' apple trees can contribute to the local economy, especially in regions where cider production is a significant industry.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant properties: Apples, including the Dabinett variety used for cider, contain phytochemicals like flavonoids and polyphenols which have antioxidant effects.
- Digestive health: The pectin in apples is a soluble fiber that can help promote digestive regularity and aid in digestive health.
- Glycemic control: Consuming apples may help with blood sugar regulation due to their fiber content, which slows the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
- Cardiovascular health: The fiber and polyphenol content in apples can contribute to heart health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Weight management: Apples are low in calories yet high in fiber, which may assist in weight management and satiety.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Woodworking: The wood of the apple tree can be used in woodworking for making small items like handles or inlays, where its fine texture and pleasant grain are appreciated.
- Natural Dye: The bark and leaves of apple trees can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, providing a range of colors from yellows to browns.
- Grafting Stocks: Apple trees can serve as rootstocks for grafting other fruit tree cultivars, enabling the propagation of specific varieties.
- Fruit Pectin: The apples can be used to make homemade pectin, which is a natural thickener for jams and jellies.
- Wildlife Habitat: The tree can offer food and habitat for various wildlife such as birds and beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity in gardens and orchards.
- Educational Use: Apple trees can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, the life cycle of plants, and agricultural practices.
- Baking Wood: The wood of apple trees is valued for its aromatic smoke, which can be used to flavor baked goods when cooking with a wood-fired oven.
- Biodegradable Planters: Hollowed out apples can be used as biodegradable planters for starting seeds before transplanting them into the garden.
- Soil Improvement: Fallen leaves and decomposed apples can contribute to soil health by adding organic matter as they decompose.
- Photography & Art: Apple trees with their blossoms, fruit, and distinct shapes can serve as beautiful subjects for photography and artwork.
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: Apples have often been associated with fertility, abundance, and prosperity owing to their plentiful fruit and the practice of planting apple trees to ensure future harvests.
- Youthful Beauty: The apple is sometimes a symbol of beauty and youth, perhaps because of its smooth, appealing skin and the feeling of healthiness they evoke.
- Love and Desire: In various mythologies and cultures, apples are connected with love, attraction, and sensual desire, making them tokens of affection.
- Knowledge and Wisdom: With historical ties to stories like Adam and Eve, or the golden apples in Norse mythology, apples can symbolize the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.
- Temptation: Stemming from the biblical story of the Garden of Eden, apples are often emblematic of temptation and the forbidden.
- Eternal Youth: In some tales, apples are the fruit of the gods and grant immortality, often reflecting the desire for unending youth and vitality.
WaterThe Cider Apple tree should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1 - 1.5 gallons of water for each year of the tree's age, especially during the growing season. Young trees require more frequent watering, about twice a week, especially during hot, dry periods. Ensure that the water penetrates deeply into the soil to reach the tree's root system. Over-watering or allowing the tree to sit in waterlogged soil can lead to root rot, so allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. During winter and cooler months, reduce the amount of water since the tree's water requirements decrease.
LightCider Apple trees thrive best in full sun conditions, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. An ideal spot would be an open area away from larger structures or trees that might cast shade. Proper sun exposure is crucial for flower formation, fruit set, and ripening.
TemperatureCider Apple trees are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but they grow best when the daytime temperature is between 60°F and 75°F. They can handle winter temperatures as low as -10°F and up to -20°F but should be shielded from extreme cold winds. The ideal growing conditions for apple trees include warm summer days and cooler nights.
PruningPrune Cider Apple trees during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring, to remove dead or diseased branches, thin out overcrowded areas for better sunlight and air circulation, and shape the tree. Pruning helps stimulate growth, improves fruit productivity, and supports the overall health of the tree. Prune yearly for the best results.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Cider Apple trees is a well-draining loam with plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, and a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingCider Apple trees are typically not repotted as they are grown outdoors, but young trees should be transplanted into the orchard after 1-2 years in a nursery.
Humidity & MistingCider Apple trees prefer outdoor conditions where humidity is naturally regulated; they do not have specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suited for indoor growth due to size and light needs.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and space adequately.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dabinett apple tree (commonly known for cider production) begins with a dormant phase in winter, where the tree conserves energy and waits for spring. In spring, buds break and blossoms emerge, which are pollinated by insects, leading to fruit set if fertilization is successful. Through summer, the apples grow and mature, drawing nutrients from the tree's leaves, which photosynthesize. As autumn approaches, the apples reach full maturity, characterized by their color, sugar content, and flavor, making them ready for harvest. After harvesting, the tree enters senescence in late autumn, shedding its leaves and transitioning back into the dormant phase. This annual cycle repeats each year throughout the tree's productive lifespan, which can last for several decades.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter-early spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the 'Dabinett' apple, particularly esteemed for cider making, is by grafting. This technique involves taking a scion or a cutting from a 'Dabinett' apple tree that includes a bud, and joining it to a rootstock that has been chosen for its desired characteristics, such as disease resistance or size control. Grafting is typically done in late winter or early spring when the plant is still dormant, before the sap starts to flow. The scion should be around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long and is carefully attached to a notch or slit in the rootstock. It's then bound with grafting tape and sealed with grafting wax to prevent dehydration and infection. The union between scion and rootstock needs to be kept moist until the graft has taken, which usually takes several weeks. Once the graft has successfully taken and new growth is evident, the tape can be removed, and the new 'Dabinett' apple tree will grow to produce the beloved cider apples.
