Norfolk Royal Apple Malus domestica 'Norfolk Royal' (D)

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Norfolk Royal Apple

• Common names

  Malus domestica 'Norfolk Royal'

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as apple tree is not considered toxic to humans. The fruit of the apple tree is widely consumed without adverse effects. However, the seeds of apples contain amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when digested. Ingesting a large number of apple seeds can potentially lead to cyanide poisoning, which may cause symptoms such as headache, confusion, anxiety, shortness of breath, dizziness, and possibly convulsions and loss of consciousness. It is important to note that accidental swallowing of a few apple seeds is generally not harmful because the body can detoxify small amounts of cyanide, and the seeds' hard coating may prevent release of the toxin during digestion.

• To pets

  The apple tree, commonly known simply as apple, is generally considered safe for pets, particularly the fruit flesh when consumed in moderation. However, similar to humans, the seeds of the apple contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized. If pets consume a large number of apple seeds, they might experience symptoms of cyanide poisoning, which include panting, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, shock, and in extreme cases, collapse, seizures, coma, or even death. Therefore, it is advisable to prevent pets from accessing and ingesting large quantities of apple seeds. The rest of the apple tree, including the leaves and stems, when consumed in small amounts, is not typically harmful to pets, but large quantities may cause mild stomach discomfort.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  12 14 feet (3.7 4.3 meters)

• Spread

  12 15 feet (3.7 4.6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Provides fresh fruit: The 'Norfolk Royal' variety of apple tree produces delicious apples that can be eaten fresh from the tree.
• Enhances garden aesthetics: With its blossoming flowers in spring and colorful fruit in autumn, it offers seasonal beauty to gardens.
• Shade provider: As it matures, the tree can provide ample shade in garden spaces, creating a cooler microclimate.
• Supports wildlife: The tree flowers attract pollinators such as bees, while the fruit provides food for birds and other wildlife.
• Educational value: Growing the tree provides educational opportunities for learning about botany and fruit cultivation.
• Local food production: Cultivating this variety contributes to local food production and can reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food.
• Economic value: The apples can be sold or used to make value-added products like cider or pies, offering potential economic benefits.

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

• Natural Dye: The skin of the apple can be used to create a natural dye for fabric or paper, producing a range of colors from yellow to brown depending on the mordant used.
• Pectin Source: The apple can be cooked down to produce pectin, a natural thickening agent that's a staple in making jellies and jams.
• Educational Resource: Apple tree lifecycle and growth can serve as an educational tool for teaching children about plant biology and agriculture.
• Grafting Stock: The robust root system of this apple variety makes it a good candidate for grafting other apple varieties.
• Potpourri: Dried apple slices from this variety can be added to potpourri mixes to impart fragrance and as a decorative element.
• Photography Subject: With their attractive appearance, Norfolk Royal apples can be arranged and photographed for art and stock photography.
• Wildlife Habitat: Apple trees can provide habitat and food for various bird species, beneficial insects, and even small mammals.
• Woodworking Material: Pruned branches of the apple tree can be used in woodworking projects for crafting items like handles and small carvings.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Excess or damaged apples can be fermented to make apple cider vinegar, used in cooking or as a household cleaning agent.
• Culinary Education: This apple variety can be used to demonstrate the differences in taste, texture, and cooking properties in culinary classes.

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 Learning: As a variety of apple (Malus domestica), the 'Norfolk Royal' often symbolizes knowledge and learning, echoing the story of Adam and Eve in the Judeo-Christian tradition, where the fruit represents the forbidden knowledge of good and evil.
• Love and Desire: Apples have been associated with love and desire across many cultures, and as such, the 'Norfolk Royal' can represent romantic interest or the sweetness of affection.
• Youth and Beauty: The apple is historically a symbol of youthfulness and beauty, likely due to the fruit's fresh appearance and longstanding association with mythic tales of eternal youth.
• Health and Vitality: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" reflects the fruit's emblematic connection to health, so the 'Norfolk Royal', in its lushness and nutrient-rich profile, also carries this meaning.
• Abundance and Prosperity: Often, fruit trees, including apple varieties like the 'Norfolk Royal', are seen as signs of abundance and prosperity because of their generous yield each season.
• Peace and Harmony: In some cultures, the apple is a symbol of peace and harmony, making the 'Norfolk Royal' a potential emblem of tranquility and reconciliation.