Discovery apple Malus domestica 'Discovery' (D)
ABOUT
The plant is commonly known as the 'Discovery' apple tree, and it is recognized for its attractive appearance. The 'Discovery' apple tree bears a profusion of beautiful blossoms in the spring, which are typically white with a hint of pale pink. As the blossoms fade, the foliage emerges, displaying a fresh green color. The leaves are simple, with an oval shape and a slightly toothed margin. The texture of the leaves is typically smooth on top with a softer underside. When fruiting begins, this apple tree produces apples that are particularly eye-catching. The skin of the apples is predominantly red, with varying amounts of yellow or green undertones, giving it a striking and appetizing appearance. The flesh of the 'Discovery' apple is usually pale cream or white, crisp, and juicy when bitten into. The apples are not very large, but they are of a size suitable for a comfortable hold in the hand and a satisfying bite. The stems of the fruits are slender and woody, attaching them firmly to the branches until ripe. This particular apple tree variety is often grown for its ornamental value as well as for its fruit production due to its beautiful blossoms, attractive foliage, and the delightful contrast of the red fruit against the green leaves.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Discovery Apple
Common names
Malus domestica 'Discovery'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as the apple tree, specifically the 'Discovery' variety, is not toxic to humans when it comes to its fruit; in fact, apples are widely consumed and are known for their nutritional benefits. However, it is important to note that the seeds inside the apple contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when chewed and digested. While small quantities of apple seeds are generally not harmful due to the low amount of amygdalin they contain, consuming extremely large amounts of crushed or chewed seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include nausea, headaches, dizziness, confusion, seizures, and even death in severe cases. Nevertheless, accidental ingestion of a few apple seeds is typically not cause for concern due to the low concentration of toxins and the body's ability to detoxify small amounts.
To pets
The apple tree, specifically the 'Discovery' variety, is generally not toxic to pets when it comes to the flesh of the fruit; many pets can safely consume apples in moderation as a treat. However, similar to humans, apple seeds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when chewed or digested. Pets, especially smaller ones, might be more sensitive to the toxins in apple seeds due to their smaller body size. If a pet were to ingest a large number of apple seeds, symptoms of cyanide poisoning could occur, including difficulty breathing, panting, dilated pupils, shock, and in extreme cases, death. Therefore, it is essential to remove the seeds before offering apple slices to pets. The leaves and stems of the apple tree could also contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be harmful in large quantities, so it is best to prevent pets from having access to these parts of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)
Spread
8-13 feet (2.4-4 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Provides fresh fruit: D, commonly known as the "apple," produces fresh fruit that can be consumed directly or used in various culinary dishes.
- Home gardening: Apple trees like the D variety can be grown in personal gardens, providing a rewarding and engaging horticultural activity.
- Beautifies landscape: With its attractive blossoms and branch structure, the apple tree is often used for aesthetic purposes in landscape design.
- Shade provider: As the apple tree grows, its canopy can create shaded areas which can be beneficial in outdoor recreational spaces or to reduce cooling costs.
- Wildlife habitat: Apple trees can provide food and shelter for a variety of birds and beneficial insects, contributing to local biodiversity.
- Educational opportunities: Growing apple trees can be an educational experience for children and adults alike, teaching about plant growth and fruit production.
- Improves soil health: The leaf litter and root systems of apple trees can contribute to soil structure and fertility over time.
- Supports local ecosystems: Apple trees are part of the ecosystem, and their flowering offers resources for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Discovery apples are often used in floral arrangements and centerpieces due to their vibrant red color, which adds a fresh and natural look to the decor.
- The branches and twigs of the Discovery apple tree can be used in decorative woodwork, providing a rustic charm to handmade crafts and furniture.
- The wood from Discovery apple trees can be used for smoking meats, imparting a subtly sweet and fruity flavor to the barbecue.
- The leaves of the Discovery apple tree can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, providing shades of green depending on the mordant used.
- Cuttings from the Discovery apple tree can be propagated to create new trees, which is an inexpensive way for gardeners to expand their orchards.
- The dense canopy of the Discovery apple tree offers habitat and nesting opportunities for various bird species in a garden setting.
- When pruned, the Discovery apple tree's clippings can be repurposed as mulch, which helps retain soil moisture and control weeds.
- The dehydrated slices of Discovery apples are used in potpourri mixes for a natural and fruity fragrance in homes.
- Apple wood from pruned Discovery branches can be crafted into walking sticks, adding a unique twist with their apple wood grain patterns.
- The fallen apples from the Discovery apple tree can be used as a natural compost or mixed into feed for livestock, especially pigs.
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 Original Sin: Apple trees, in general, are often associated with knowledge and enlightenment due to the biblical story of Adam and Eve, where the apple represents the forbidden fruit and Original Sin.
- Love and Temptation: Throughout history and mythology, apples have been seen as symbols of love and temptation, such as the Greek myth of the golden apple leading to the Trojan War.
- Youth and Beauty: The apple is also a symbol of youth and beauty, often associated with tales where characters, like Snow White, are offered an apple as a means of preserving or threatening these qualities.
- Health and Wellbeing: The saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" aligns with the apple as a symbol for health, well-being, and the importance of eating fruits.
- Prosperity and Abundance: Apple trees are often considered symbols of prosperity and abundance, thanks to their fruitfulness and the wealth of harvest they bring.
WaterThe common name of Malus domestica 'Discovery' is apple tree, and it should be watered deeply to ensure that the root zone is moist. Young trees require watering once a week with 5 to 10 gallons depending on weather conditions, particularly in the growing season. Mature trees can be watered less frequently; every two or three weeks with an equivalent of 1-1.5 inches of rainfall. During prolonged dry spells or droughts, increased watering is necessary to maintain tree health. It is essential to avoid waterlogging by allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
LightApple trees thrive best in full sunlight, needing at least six hours of direct sun per day. The ideal spot for planting an apple tree is in a location where it is exposed to ample sunshine from morning through the afternoon. Trees planted in partial shade may not produce as much fruit and are more prone to diseases.
TemperatureApple trees can tolerate a range of temperature conditions, with the ideal growing temperatures being between 60°F and 75°F during the growing season. They can survive winter temperatures down to -40°F, but flowering and fruiting can be affected if spring temperatures dip below 28°F. The tree should be planted in a spot protected from harsh winds, which can damage it during cold snaps.
PruningPruning apple trees is necessary to maintain their shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and to promote the growth of fruit-bearing branches. Prune during dormancy in late winter before new growth starts, and again in summer if necessary to thin excessive growth. Aim to open up the canopy to light and air which helps reduce disease pressure and improve fruit quality. Thin out the center to avoid overcrowding of branches.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Apple 'Discovery' should be well-draining and rich in organic matter, ideally with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of garden loam, peat moss, and compost would provide suitable conditions.
RepottingApple 'Discovery' trees are typically not repotted as they are grown directly in the ground. If grown in containers, they may need repotting every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for roots.
Humidity & MistingApple 'Discovery' trees prefer outdoor conditions where the humidity is generally not a concern. They do well in average humidity levels of the environment and do not require specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suitable for indoors, need sunlight and space.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, space for roots.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe common name of Malus domestica 'Discovery' is the Discovery Apple. This deciduous tree begins its life cycle as a dormant seed, which requires a period of cold stratification before germination. Upon germinating in spring, the seedling emerges and develops into a young tree, which will grow and mature over several years. Once mature, the Discovery Apple tree produces fragrant flowers in spring, which are then pollinated, typically by bees, resulting in the formation of fruit. Apples typically ripen in late summer to early autumn, and once mature, the fruit is harvested. The tree then enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, losing its leaves and conserving energy for the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
Propogation: The most popular method for propagating the apple tree variety known as 'Discovery' is through grafting. This process typically takes place in late winter to early spring before the trees break dormancy. In this method, a scion, which is a young shoot or twig from the 'Discovery' apple tree, is selected and cut into lengths of about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm). This scion is then attached to the rootstock of another apple tree using a graft union, which involves making precise cuts on both the scion and the rootstock and then securing them together so that they can heal and grow as one. The rootstock typically provides the root system and some of the lower trunk, while the scion develops into the upper part of the tree, thus maintaining the characteristics of the 'Discovery' apple. Grafting is a favored method for apple trees, as it allows for consistency in fruit production and ensures the new tree will mirror the traits of the 'Discovery' variety.
