Suntan Apple Malus domestica 'Suntan' (D)

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Suntan Apple

• Common names

  Malus domestica 'Suntan'

Toxicity

• To humans

  Apple ('Suntan') trees, like other apple varieties, are generally not toxic to humans. However, the seeds of apples contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when chewed and digested. Consuming large quantities of apple seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning, which is characterized by symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing, fast heart rate, and potentially even seizures or loss of consciousness in extreme cases. That said, accidental ingestion of a few seeds from an apple is unlikely to cause harm due to the low concentration of cyanogenic glycosides in individual seeds and the body's ability to detoxify small amounts of cyanide.

• To pets

  Apple ('Suntan') trees are similar to other apple varieties in that they are not toxic to most pets. However, as with humans, the seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that can release cyanide if chewed and ingested in significant quantities. This could potentially lead to symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets, such as drooling, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and shock. It is unlikely that a pet would consume enough seeds to result in severe poisoning, but it is still advisable to prevent pets from eating apple seeds to avoid any potential health risks.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters)

• Spread

  12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5-8

• Native area

  Central Asia

General Benefits

• Edible fruits: The Suntan apple tree produces edible fruits that are a rich source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and are also a sweet and tasty addition to the diet.
• Aesthetic appeal: With its attractive blossoms in spring and fruit in autumn, the apple tree provides visual interest and beauty to gardens and landscapes.
• Habitat for Wildlife: The apple tree can offer habitat and food for various wildlife species, including birds, bees, and other pollinators.
• Shade provider: The tree can create shade in gardens and parks, offering a cool respite during hot summer months.
• Cultural significance: Apples have a strong cultural presence in many traditions and can be used in various culinary recipes and activities like cider making or apple picking.
• Personal satisfaction: Growing and harvesting one's own apples can provide a sense of accomplishment and connection to nature.

Medical Properties

• Antioxidant content: Apple fruits, including those from Malus domestica 'Suntan', contain antioxidants which are compounds that may protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Dietary fiber: The fiber in apples can aid in digestive health and may contribute to the prevention of constipation and other digestive disorders.
• Cardiovascular health: Regular consumption of apples is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases due to the presence of soluble fibers and polyphenols that may lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Blood sugar regulation: The fiber in apples also helps in slowing the absorption of sugars, which can help in regulating blood sugar levels.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Natural Dye: The leaves and bark of the apple tree can be used to produce dyes for fabrics or other materials.
• Woodworking Projects: Apple wood is valued for its dense grain and is utilized for small woodworking projects such as carving or making tool handles.
• Smoke Flavoring: Apple wood chips are commonly used to give a sweet, fruity flavor to smoked meats and other dishes when used in grilling or barbecuing.
• Photography Prop: Apple trees, with their blossoms or fruit-laden branches, can make for beautiful photography backdrops or props.
• Crafting Materials: Dried apple slices can be used for crafting, such as making garlands, wreath decorations, or potpourri.
• Homemade Pectin: Natural pectin can be extracted from the peels and cores of apples for use in making jams and jellies.
• Natural Insect Repellent: Apple cider vinegar, which can be made from apples, is often touted as a natural insect repellent.
• Educational Resource: Apple trees can be used in educational settings to teach children about botany, the life cycle of plants, and the importance of agriculture.
• Animal Feed: The fruit and other by-products of apple trees not suitable for human consumption can be used to feed livestock or wildlife.
• Musical Instruments: Small pieces of apple wood may be carved and used in the making of certain wind instruments or decorative elements on stringed instruments.

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: The Malus domestica 'Suntan', commonly known as the Apple, often symbolizes knowledge, as depicted in the story of Adam and Eve where the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge is typically represented as an apple.
• Love and Desire: Apples are associated with love and desire in various mythologies and cultures, such as the Greek story of the golden apple labeled "to the fairest."
• Youth and Beauty: In mythology, apples are often connected with youth and beauty, granting immortality or eternal youth to those who eat them.
• Fertility and Abundance: As a fruit-bearing tree, apples are natural symbols of fertility and abundance, representing the fullness and richness of life.
• Peace and Harmony: In some traditions, the apple is a symbol of peace and harmony, as offering an apple is seen as a gesture of goodwill and reconciliation.