Katja Apple Malus domestica 'Katja' (D)

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Katja Apple, Katha Apple, Katya Apple

• Common names

  Malus domestica 'Katja'

Toxicity

• To humans

  Malus domestica 'Katja' is more commonly known as the apple. The fruit of the apple tree is widely consumed by humans and is not toxic. However, the seeds of the apple contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when metabolized. Ingesting small amounts of seeds is typically not harmful due to the low concentration of amygdalin, but consuming a large number of seeds can potentially lead to cyanide poisoning. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include headache, confusion, anxiety, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and in extreme cases, it can be lethal. It's also important to note that the risks are minor when the seeds are swallowed whole, as they may pass through the digestive system intact.

• To pets

  Malus domestica 'Katja', commonly known as the apple, is not toxic to pets when it comes to the fruit's flesh. However, similar to humans, the seeds contain amygdalin, which can convert to cyanide when digested. While a small number of seeds are not likely to cause cyanide poisoning in pets, large quantities can be harmful, and the smaller the pet, the fewer seeds are needed to cause a problem. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, shock, and in severe cases, collapse and death. It is advisable to prevent pets from having access to apple seeds, and to feed them only the flesh of the apple, ideally without the core and seeds.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  12-15 feet (3.7-4.6 meters)

• Spread

  12-15 feet (3.7-4.6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Produces Fruit: The Malus domestica 'Katja' is a fruit tree commonly known as an apple tree, which provides a source of edible fruits.
• Aesthetic Appeal: As an ornamental tree, it enhances garden landscapes with its blossoms and fruit.
• Shade Provider: The tree's canopy can offer shade and cooler temperatures in garden areas during hot weather.
• Habitat for Wildlife: It can serve as habitat and food source for various species of birds and insects.
• Pollination Assistance: The flowers of the apple tree are attractive to bees and can aid in the pollination of other plants.
• Seasonal Interest: Offers a display of changing colors and forms throughout the seasons, from blooms to fruit to autumn foliage.
• Local Food Production: Growing apple trees supports local food systems by providing fresh produce directly from the garden.
• Educational Opportunities: It can be used for educational purposes to teach about plant growth, fruit development, and horticulture.
• Cultural Significance: Apple trees often hold cultural relevance and are associated with many traditions and folklore.

Medical Properties

• Rich in dietary fiber: Apple consumption can help in maintaining digestive health.
• Contains vitamin C: Vitamin C is known to support the immune system.
• Phytonutrients: Apples contain compounds that may have antioxidant effects.
• May help regulate blood sugar: Apples have a low glycemic index and can be part of a diet that helps manage blood sugar levels.
• Cardiovascular health: The fiber and antioxidant content may contribute to heart health.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Natural Dye: The fruit skins of apple can be used to produce natural dyes for fabrics, yarns, or craft projects.
• Insect Trap: Chopped apple pieces can attract and trap fruit flies, protecting other fruits and vegetables in the kitchen.
• Floral Arrangements: Branches with apple blossoms can be used in springtime floral arrangements for their beauty and fragrance.
• Stamping Craft: Apple halves can be dipped in paint to create playful stamps for craft projects or decorative motives for kids.
• Watercolor Paints: The juices from apple skins can be mixed with water and a little vinegar to create a watercolor paint.
• Potpourri Ingredient: Dried apple slices can be added to a potpourri mix to impart a pleasant apple scent to a room.
• Apple Wood Smoking: The wood from an apple tree is valued for smoking meats due to its sweet, mild smoke flavor.
• Gardening Aid: Pureed apple can act as a compost accelerator due to its sugar content, which helps feed microorganisms in the compost pile.
• Woodworking Material: Apple wood can be used for small woodworking projects including carving because of its fine grain.
• Livestock Treat: Leftover apples can be given to livestock such as horses and pigs as a nutritious and enjoyable treat.

Feng Shui

The apple tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The apple tree is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Love and Desire: The apple, as a fruit, often symbolizes love and desire. The story of Adam and Eve in the Judeo-Christian tradition, where the apple represents the fruit of knowledge and the fall of man, has also been interpreted as a story of love and desire.
• Knowledge and Wisdom: Apples are associated with knowledge, as seen in the aforementioned Biblical story. They can also represent wisdom, as the apple is the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge.
• Youth and Beauty: In various mythologies and stories, apples are often connected to youthfulness and beauty, perhaps because of their fresh, crisp appearance and association with health.
• Health and Vitality: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" is a well-known saying that underscores the apple's association with health and well-being.
• Abundance and Fertility: Apple trees are known for their abundant fruit, making them symbols of fertility and plenty.