Apple Malus domestica 'Falstaff' (PBR) (D)
ABOUT
The apple tree 'Falstaff' is known for its attractive and productive nature. It bears fruit that is typically round and boasts a delightful coloring that combines shades of red and yellow, creating a pleasing visual display on the branches. The skin of the apples is smooth with a glossy finish that can be highly appealing to the eye. As the apples ripen, they can develop a more intense red flush, which adds to their allure. The leaves of this apple tree are a vibrant green, and they have a broad, oval shape with a slightly serrated edge, providing a lush, dense canopy. During the blooming period, the tree produces an abundance of blossoms. The flowers are typically a soft white with a hint of pink, creating a striking contrast against the green foliage. The blossoms not only contribute to the tree's aesthetic appeal but also play a crucial role in the pollination process needed for the fruit to develop. Overall, the 'Falstaff' apple tree exudes a robust and healthy presence, with leaves and branches that may display a vigorous growth pattern, lending an air of vitality to wherever it is planted. The apples themselves are a central part of the plant's beauty, with their eye-catching hues and plump, rounded form that hints at the juicy, crisp flesh beneath their skins. The tree's seasonal changes, from the refreshing greens of spring and summer to the warmer tones of ripening apples in the fall, provide a year-round interest that can enhance any garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Falstaff Apple
Common names
Malus domestica 'Falstaff'.
ToxicityTo humans
Malus domestica 'Falstaff', commonly known as the apple, is not toxic to humans. The fruit is widely consumed with no adverse effects. However, the seeds found inside the apple do contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when digested. Ingesting small amounts of seeds is generally not harmful due to the low concentration of amygdalin, but consuming large quantities of crushed or chewed seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include headache, confusion, dizziness, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, seizures, cardiac arrest, and death.
To pets
Malus domestica 'Falstaff', which is the apple, is not considered to be toxic to pets either. However, similar to humans, the seeds contain amygdalin, which can cause cyanide poisoning if ingested in large quantities after being chewed or crushed. The core and stem of the apple can also pose a choking hazard or create digestive blockages. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets are similar to those in humans and can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, and shock. If a pet ingests a large amount of apple seeds, it is crucial to seek veterinary assistance promptly.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
10-15 feet [3-4.5 meters]
Spread
10-15 feet [3-4.5 meters]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5-8
Native area
Asia Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible Fruit - Produces apples which can be eaten fresh, cooked, or used for juice and cider.
- Ornamental Value - Attractive blossoms in spring add aesthetic value to landscapes.
- Habitat for Wildlife - Provides food and shelter for various birds and pollinators.
- Shade Provider - Can offer shade in garden areas or when used as part of a landscape design.
- Seasonal Interest - Offers year-round interest with changing foliage, flowers, and fruit.
- Local Food Source - Can contribute to home-grown produce reducing the need to purchase fruit.
- Learning Tool - Ideal for educational purposes, teaching about plant life cycles and horticulture.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Woodworking: The wood from the apple tree is often used in detailed woodworking projects, including carving and turning because it is hard and has a fine grain.
- Natural Dyes: The bark and leaves of the apple tree can be used to make natural dyes for fabric, yielding colors ranging from yellow to brown.
- Ink Creation: The tannins present in the apple tree can be used to create a natural ink.
- Smoking Meat: Apple wood is commonly used in smoking meats to add a sweet, fruity flavor that complements pork and poultry especially well.
- Educational Tools: Apple trees can be used in educational settings, like schools or workshops, to teach grafting, pruning, and other horticultural techniques.
- Photography: The apple tree, especially when in full blossom or laden with fruit, can serve as an excellent subject for nature photography.
- Craft Materials: Dried apple slices and twigs can be used to create wreaths, potpourri, or other decorative items.
- Wildlife Habitat: An apple tree provides food and shelter for a variety of wildlife including birds, bees, and small mammals.
- Children's Games: The sturdy branches of an apple tree can be used for hanging swings or constructing treehouses for children's outdoor activities.
- Floral Arrangements: Apple blossoms and small branches with immature fruit can be used as part of floral arrangements for their beauty and fragrance.
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 - The apple, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve, often symbolizes knowledge, temptation, and the fall of man due to its association with the forbidden fruit.
- Fertility and Abundance - Apples are a common symbol of fertility and abundance, as the fruit is plentiful and the trees are highly productive.
- Eternal Youth - The apple is sometimes considered a symbol of eternal youth, inspired by various mythologies where apples grant longevity or immortality.
- Love and Desire - In some cultures, apples represent love and desire, possibly due to the fruit’s appealing appearance and sweetness.
- Peace - In certain historical contexts, apples symbolize peace, as offering an apple was sometimes seen as a gesture of goodwill or truce.
WaterFor the apple tree Malus domestica 'Falstaff', regular watering is crucial, especially during the first few years to establish a strong root system. Water the tree once a week with about 5 gallons of water, ensuring that the moisture reaches deep into the root zone. During periods of drought or extreme heat, you may need to water twice a week. Decrease watering frequency to every two weeks during the cooler months. Ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, as this could lead to root rot.
LightApple trees like Malus domestica 'Falstaff' require full sun to produce the best fruit. Planting the tree in a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal. Avoid areas that are shaded for long periods, as insufficient light can lead to poor fruit development and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
TemperatureThe apple tree variety Malus domestica 'Falstaff' grows best in temperate climates. It can withstand winter temperatures as low as 0°F and is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8. The ideal growing temperatures for this tree are between 60°F and 75°F during the growing season. Apple trees require a certain number of chill hours, typically between 800 and 1,000 hours below 45°F, to break dormancy and ensure proper bud development.
PruningPruning the apple tree Malus domestica 'Falstaff' is essential to maintain its health, shape, and to encourage the growth of fruiting spurs. Prune the tree during its dormant period, typically in late winter or early spring. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and sunlight exposure. A well-pruned tree should have a balanced structure with evenly spaced branches, promoting better fruit quality. Annual pruning is recommended to maintain the desired shape and size.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe apple tree Malus domestica 'Falstaff' prefers a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for this apple variety is between 6.0 and 7.0. To create the best soil mix, combine garden soil, compost, and some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
RepottingApple trees such as Malus domestica 'Falstaff' are typically grown outdoors and do not require repotting. However, young trees in nursery pots may need to be planted into the ground or larger containers every 2 to 3 years until they reach maturity.
Humidity & MistingApple trees like the Malus domestica 'Falstaff' thrive in outdoor conditions where humidity is naturally regulated. They do not require a specific humidity level, but they perform well in areas that have average atmospheric humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suitable for indoor growth; needs full sun, space.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleMalus domestica 'Falstaff' (commonly known as the Falstaff apple), begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in the soil with appropriate warmth and moisture. As a seedling, it establishes roots and sprouts leaves, relying on nutrients from the soil and energy from the sun through photosynthesis. The seedling grows into a juvenile tree over several years, during which time it develops a strong root system and branching structure but does not yet bear fruit. Upon reaching maturity, the Falstaff apple tree enters the flowering stage in the spring, producing blossoms that are pollinated by insects, leading to fruit set. The fruits, or apples, develop through the summer, eventually ripening in the fall when they are ready for harvest. After many years of productivity, the tree will eventually reach senescence, where growth slows, and it may produce less fruit before dying.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter to early spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the ‘Falstaff’ apple tree, scientifically known as Malus domestica 'Falstaff' (PBR) (D), is through grafting. Grafting typically takes place in late winter or early spring, just before the growing season begins. In this process, a scion, which is a young shoot or twig from the 'Falstaff' variety, is cut to include several buds. This scion is then precisely attached to a rootstock, commonly a hardy apple variety with desirable root traits, by making matching cuts on both the scion and rootstock and binding them tightly together. The joint is usually wrapped with a grafting tape to hold it securely and maintain moisture. Over time, the tissues of the two parts grow together, forming a united plant that combines the fruiting qualities of the 'Falstaff' with the rootstock's vigor and disease resistance.
