King of the Pippins Apple Malus domestica 'King of the Pippins' (D)

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae.

• Synonyms

  King of the Pippins, Reine des Reinettes, King of the Apples, Golden Winter Pearmain.

• Common names

  Malus domestica 'King of the Pippins'

Toxicity

• To humans

  The Malus domestica, commonly known as the apple tree, has parts that are toxic to humans when consumed in large quantities. The seeds of the apple contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when digested. Cyanide is highly toxic and can be dangerous in high doses. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning from eating too many apple seeds may include headache, dizziness, confusion, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, and in extreme cases, can lead to unconsciousness, coma, and death. However, accidental ingestion of a few apple seeds is unlikely to cause significant harm because the human body can detoxify small amounts of cyanide and the seeds themselves have a protective coating that may prevent the release of cyanide unless they are thoroughly chewed.

• To pets

  The Malus domestica, known as the apple tree, is considered safe for pets in terms of the fruit flesh; however, similar to humans, the seeds contain amygdalin, which can convert to cyanide when ingested. This can potentially be toxic to pets like dogs and cats if they consume large quantities of the seeds. The symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, shock, and in severe cases, can lead to collapse, seizures, coma, and death. It is important to prevent pets from accessing large amounts of apple seeds, but the flesh of the apple is generally regarded as a safe treat in moderation.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  12-15 feet (3.7-4.5 meters)

• Spread

  12-15 feet (3.7-4.5 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Nutritional Value: Apples from 'King of the Pippins' are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting a healthy diet.
• Culinary Versatility: They can be used in a variety of recipes, from salads to desserts, due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Home Gardening: Perfect for home orchards, providing the satisfaction of growing your own fruit and the beauty of apple blossoms in spring.
• Wildlife Habitat: Offers habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including bees, birds, and beneficial insects.
• Economic Value: Can be sold at markets or used in value-added products like cider or apple butter, providing potential income for growers.
• Educational Tool: Ideal for teaching about plant life cycles, horticulture, and the importance of fruit in the diet when grown in school gardens or educational farms.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Wood from apple trees can be used for smoking foods, providing a sweet and fruity smoke flavor that is especially good for pork and poultry.
• Small branches and twigs of the apple tree can be used in floral arrangements or craft projects for their rustic and natural appearance.
• Dried apple slices made from this variety can be used as natural and decorative potpourri, emitting a gentle fragrance when combined with spices.
• The apple tree's bark can be used in natural dyeing processes, producing colors that range from yellows to browns depending on the mordant used.
• Fallen leaves from the apple tree can be collected and used to create mulch or compost, adding nutrients back into the garden soil.
• The dense wood of the apple tree is suitable for carving and turning, allowing for the creation of small wooden objects like bowls, utensils, or decorative items.
• Apple pomace, the pulpy residue remaining after juice extraction, can be added to livestock feed as a nutritional supplement.
• Apple wood chips can be incorporated into garden pathways or play areas, providing a durable and fragrant ground cover.
• Dried apple tree flowers can be incorporated into handmade soaps and candles for their subtle fragrance and aesthetic appeal.
• Apple sap can be collected and used as a natural adhesive or binder in certain traditional crafts or as an ingredient in homemade botanical syrups.

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

• Knowledge and Wisdom: The apple, as the fruit of Malus domestica, holds a deep connection with knowledge and wisdom, a symbolism that can be traced back to various mythologies, including the story of Adam and Eve in the Judeo-Christian tradition, where the apple represents the fruit of knowledge from the Tree of Knowledge.
• Temptation and Sin: Similarly, due to its association with the biblical tale, the apple can also symbolize temptation and original sin, representing the allure of forbidden knowledge or desires.
• Love and Beauty: In Greek mythology, the apple is associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Apples were often presented as a token of affection and admiration.
• Fertility and Abundance: Apples, as a fruit that can be bountifully harvested, are commonly linked with themes of fertility, abundance, and prosperity.
• Eternal Life: Norse mythology sees the apple as a symbol of eternal youth. The goddess Idun was believed to possess apples that granted the gods immortality.