Apple Malus domestica 'Laxton's Superb' (D)
ABOUT
Laxton's Superb is an apple tree variety known for its attractive fruit and ornamental value. The apples are particularly eye-catching, with a pale green to yellow background color that becomes flushed with red and striped overtones as they ripen. This creates a beautiful dappled appearance on the fruit's surface, making it a standout on the tree. The skin of Laxton's Superb apples is typically smooth with a light sheen, and they may display some russeting, which is a rough, brownish area that adds to their rustic charm. The fruit is usually of medium size, with a classic round to conical shape that is slightly ribbed on the body. The apples are crowned at the top by a short and stout stem, nestled within a moderately deep and wide basin that may be surrounded by a light russet. The calyx on the bottom of the apple is closed or partially open, set in a shallow and broad cavity, which is often surrounded by slight russeting as well. The leaves of the Laxton's Superb are typically lush and green, with a broad and ovate shape, coming to a point at the tip. They are arranged alternately along the branches, creating a dense canopy that provides shade and protection for the developing fruit. The foliage generally has a serrated edge, adding to the tree's textured appearance. Flowers bloom in spring, presenting a delightful display of blossoms that range from white to pale pink. The blooms consist of five petals and are usually cupped or slightly open, attracting pollinators to the tree with their subtle fragrance. These blossoms give way to the fruit, which matures in the fall, signaling harvest time for these delicious apples. Overall, Laxton's Superb is a beautiful fruit tree that adds both visual and edible interest to any garden setting. Its apples are not only attractive but are known for their rich, aromatic flavor that is both sweet and sharp, making them a favored choice for fresh eating and culinary use.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Laxton's Superb Apple
Common names
Malus domestica 'Laxton's Superb'.
ToxicityTo humans
Apple trees, including the Laxton's Superb variety of Malus domestica, are not considered toxic to humans. The fruit is widely consumed without any adverse effects. However, it's important to note that the seeds of apples contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when digested. Ingesting a large number of apple seeds may lead to symptoms of cyanide poisoning, which include headache, confusion, anxiety, shortness of breath, and potentially could be life-threatening in severe cases. Nevertheless, an individual would have to consume an extremely large number of seeds for this to be a risk.
To pets
Apple trees, such as the Laxton's Superb apple, are generally safe for pets in terms of the flesh of the fruit. However, the seeds, like in humans, contain amygdalin, which can be harmful to pets if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, and shock. If a pet consumes a large number of apple seeds, it could potentially be fatal, and immediate veterinary care is advised. Additionally, other parts of the apple tree, such as leaves and stems, may contain cyanide, particularly if they are wilting, so these should also be kept out of reach of pets.
CharacteristicsLife 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
5-8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Value - Adds beauty to gardens with its attractive blossoms and fruit.
- Shade Provider - Can provide shade in gardens and outdoor spaces when grown to a suitable size.
- Edible Fruit - Produces apples that can be consumed fresh, cooked, or used for making cider.
- Wildlife Habitat - Attracts pollinators such as bees during flowering and provides food for birds and other wildlife with its fruit.
- Local Food Source - Can be part of a sustainable, local food system by growing apples close to the point of consumption.
- Cultural Significance - Apples have a strong presence in various cultures and traditions, e.g., used in celebrations and as symbols in art and literature.
- Soil Improvement - Like many trees, contributes to soil health through leaf litter and root growth that enhance soil structure.
- Educational Value - Useful for teaching about plant life cycles, horticulture, and the importance of fruit in human diets.
- Seasonal Interest - Offers different visual interests throughout the year, from spring blossoms to summer growth and autumn fruit.
- Varietal Preservation - Growing traditional cultivars like Laxton's Superb maintains genetic diversity in apple orchards.
Medical Properties- Digestive Health: Apples from Malus domestica can help promote digestive regularity due to their high fiber content.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: The soluble fiber found in apples may assist in regulating blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugar.
- Heart Health: The consumption of apples has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, potentially due to their fiber content and polyphenols, which may have a role in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Weight Management: Apples may support weight management efforts because they are low in calories yet high in fiber, contributing to a feeling of fullness.
- Antioxidant Properties: Malus domestica contains antioxidants, such as vitamin C and various polyphenols, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wood from the apple tree can be used for crafting small woodworking projects like picture frames or carved ornaments due to its durability and pleasant grain.
- Dried apple wood is an excellent choice for smoking meats, providing a sweet and fruity smoke flavor that complements pork and poultry.
- Apple tree branches are sometimes used in floral arrangements for their rustic appearance, particularly when they include buds or small fruits.
- Apple pomace, the solid remains after juicing, can be added to compost piles as a source of natural sugar, aiding in the fermentation process and enriching the soil.
- The bark of apple trees can be used in tanning leather, employing the tannins present to treat the hides.
- Twigs and small branches from apple trees make for environmentally friendly kindling and can be used to start fires in wood stoves or fireplaces.
- When pruned correctly, branches from an apple tree can be fashioned into natural trellises or supports for other climbing plants in the garden.
- The natural shape of some apple tree branches can be used as rustic handrails or banisters in creative home decor projects.
- Apple tree sawdust can be incorporated into homemade paper to add texture and a unique appearance to the finished product.
- The dense foliage of apple trees can provide a natural privacy screen or windbreak when planted in rows along property boundaries.
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- Love and Temptation: Apples, which come from Malus domestica, are often associated with love, desire, and temptation, largely due to their role in various mythologies, such as the story of Adam and Eve.
- Knowledge and Wisdom: The apple can symbolize knowledge and wisdom, playing off the idea of the 'fruit of knowledge' from the Biblical Tree of Knowledge.
- Youth and Immortality: In some cultures, apples are seen as a symbol of youthfulness and immortality, attributed to their fresh taste and longevity of freshness.
- Peace and Harmony: Gifting apples was sometimes seen as an offering to signify peace or to resolve conflicts, signifying a wish for harmony.
- Fertility and Abundance: Because apple trees produce fruit abundantly, they can also symbolize fertility and bounty, often used in harvest celebrations.
- Beauty and Perfection: The round, often perfect form of the apple has been taken as a symbol for beauty and wholeness.
WaterThe apple tree, known commonly as 'Laxton's Superb', requires regular watering to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil. During the growing season, watering should generally occur once a week with about 5 gallons of water for young trees, and 10 to 15 gallons for more established trees, depending on the weather conditions and soil type. Watering should be done at the base of the tree, avoiding wetting the foliage as this can promote disease. In periods of drought, additional watering may be necessary. During the winter, reduce watering frequency because the tree is dormant and requires less moisture.
LightApple trees, including 'Laxton's Superb', thrive best in full sunlight, where they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for planting is in an open area away from taller structures or trees that might shade them. Good exposure to sunlight is crucial for flower and fruit development and helps ensure a bountiful harvest.
Temperature'Laxton's Superb' apple trees grow well in a range of temperatures but prefer a temperate climate. They can withstand winter temperatures as low as -20°F but are best suited to areas where the average minimum winter temperature doesn't fall below -10°F. During the growing season, a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F is ideal for apple development.
PruningPruning 'Laxton's Superb' apple trees is essential for removing damaged or diseased wood and to shape the tree for optimal fruit production. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning during this period minimizes the risk of infection and allows for easier identification of the tree's structure. It's recommended to prune annually to maintain tree health and maximize fruit size and quality.
CleaningAs needed
SoilApple trees like 'Laxton's Superb' thrive in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. For the best soil mix, combine one part loam, one part peat moss, and one part sand or perlite. Ensure the mix is rich in organic matter and has good drainage to prevent root rot and other water-related issues.
Repotting'Laxton's Superb' apple trees, being standard fruit trees, are not typically repotted as they are grown outdoors. These trees are usually planted once in a suitable location where they can spread their roots indefinitely.
Humidity & Misting'Laxton's Superb' apple trees, when grown outdoors, do well in average outdoor humidity levels and do not require specific humidity adjustments. Ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not recommended; requires full sun, space, and pollination.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun, water, and prune regularly.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe common name for Malus domestica 'Laxton's Superb' is Apple Tree. It begins with seed germination, where the apple seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy before they sprout. After germination, the seedling grows and develops into a young tree through a phase called vegetative growth, which involves root expansion and shoot growth, leading to the formation of a sturdy trunk and branching system. As the apple tree matures, it enters the reproductive stage and starts to flower, typically in the spring, with the blossoms being pollinated by insects such as bees. Following successful pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, and by late summer or early fall, the apples reach maturity and can be harvested. The apple tree, being a perennial, then enters a period of dormancy during the winter months, conserving energy to repeat the cycle in the following growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter
The Malus domestica 'Laxton's Superb', commonly known as Laxton's Superb apple, is typically propagated through grafting. Grafting is the most popular method of propagation for many apple varieties, including Laxton's Superb. This process involves joining a scion, which is a young shoot or twig of the desired apple variety, with a rootstock, which is the root part of a plant selected for its robustness and compatibility with soil conditions. The best time to perform grafting is in late winter to early spring, before new growth begins. The scion should be around 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 centimeters) long with at least two or three buds. The cut surfaces of the scion and the rootstock are matched and bound together, allowing the tissues to fuse as the tree heals, thus combining the characteristics of the variety with the hardiness of the rootstock.
