King Russet Apple Malus domestica 'King Russet' (D)

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  King Russet Apple

• Common names

  Malus domestica 'King Russet'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The most common name for Malus domestica 'King Russet' is Apple Tree. Generally, apples are not toxic to humans and are widely consumed for their nutritional benefits. However, the seeds of apples contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when metabolized in the human body. Ingesting a very large quantity of apple seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning, with symptoms that might include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and even death. That said, accidental consumption of a few apple seeds is usually not cause for concern, as the human body can detoxify small amounts of cyanide and the seeds' hard coating often prevents release of the toxin.

• To pets

  The most common name for Malus domestica 'King Russet' is Apple Tree. While the flesh of apples is safe for many pets to eat in moderation, the seeds, stems, and leaves contain cyanogenic glycosides, such as amygdalin, which can potentially be toxic when ingested in large amounts. These compounds can cause cyanide poisoning if enough seeds are chewed and ingested by pets. Signs of cyanide poisoning in pets can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, and shock. It is important to note that poisoning from apple seeds is rare and typically only occurs if a large quantity is consumed. When feeding pets apples, it is best to remove the seeds and core to avoid any risk.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  12-15 feet (3.7-4.6 meters)

• Spread

  12-15 feet (3.7-4.6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5-8

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Produces fruit - The King Russet apple tree yields apples that are ideal for eating fresh, cooking, or preserving.
• Environmental improvement - As a tree, it contributes to the local ecosystem by providing habitats for various forms of wildlife.
• Aesthetic value - This variety, with its distinctive russeted skin, can add visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
• Pollination - The tree can serve as a pollinator for other apple varieties that require cross-pollination to bear fruit.
• Educational interest - Gardeners, students, and enthusiasts can learn about plant cultivation and apple breeding through this variety.
• Shade provision - Mature trees can provide shade, which can be beneficial for comfort and reducing cooling costs in nearby structures.

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, including the 'King Russet', can be used to create small handcrafted items such as kitchen utensils, woodworking projects, or even smoking chips for adding flavor to barbequed foods.
• The dense and sturdy wood can also be carved or turned on a lathe to produce decorative items like pens, bowls, and other ornamentals.
• Apple branches can be used in floristry as part of flower arrangements or to add a rustic touch to decorations due to their twisting shapes and attractive buds.
• Dried apple slices from 'King Russet' apples can be used as natural decorations during the holiday seasons or incorporated into wreaths and garlands.
• 'King Russet' apple peels can be simmered to naturally scent your home, creating a warm and inviting spice-filled aroma.
• The fallen leaves of the apple tree can be gathered and added to a compost pile to provide a source of carbon for the composting process, enhancing soil quality when used as fertilizer.
• Apple trees can be used in permaculture gardens as part of a guild, which is a grouping of plants that support each other in various ways, such as providing nutrients or attracting beneficial insects.
• The patterned bark and gnarled branches of older 'King Russet' apple trees are sometimes utilized in photography or as backdrops in artistic compositions due to their visual interest.
• In crafts for children, apple seeds can be used to create seed art or for educational planting activities to learn about plant lifecycles.
• During pruning, the cuttings from 'King Russet' apple trees can be saved and used to propagate new trees through a process called grafting, allowing the cultivation of new trees with the same characteristics.

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, widely recognized for its appearance in the biblical story of Adam and Eve, often symbolizes knowledge and wisdom, seen as the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge.
• Love and Desire: In Greek and Roman mythology, apples are frequently associated with love and beauty, often given as a symbol of desire or as a means to win someone's affection.
• Fertility and Abundance: Due to its prolific nature and the fruit's seeds, the apple can symbolize fertility and abundance, representing the idea of plentifulness and richness.
• Eternal Youth: Norse mythology speaks of apples providing eternal youthfulness to the gods, suggesting a connection between apples and youth or rejuvenation.
• Peace and Harmony: Offering an apple is sometimes seen as extending an olive branch, symbolizing peace and the resolution of conflict.