Chonosuki Crabapple Malus tschonoskii

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae.

• Synonyms

  Chonosuki Crabapple, Pillar Apple.

• Common names

  Malus tschonoskii.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The common name for Malus tschonoskii is Pillar Apple. As with many members of the Malus genus, the Pillar Apple itself is not considered toxic to humans. However, caution should be exercised because seeds within the apple, like those from other apple varieties, contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized. Ingesting a small number of seeds is unlikely to cause harm, but consuming large quantities of crushed or chewed seeds could potentially lead to symptoms of cyanide poisoning. These symptoms may include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, seizures, coma, or even death. It is important to note that poisoning from consuming apple seeds is extremely rare due to the small amount of amygdalin they contain.

• To pets

  The Pillar Apple is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, as with humans, the seeds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when ingested in large quantities. While small amounts of apple flesh can be safe for pets like dogs, the seeds should be avoided. Consuming a lot of apple seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning in pets, with symptoms that might include salivation, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, shock, and in extreme cases, collapse or coma. However, such cases are rare because a pet typically would not consume enough crushed seeds to result in serious toxicity. It is always best to consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has eaten something potentially harmful.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  20 feet (6 meters)

• Spread

  15 feet (4.5 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Japan

General Benefits

• Ornamental value: Malus tschonoskii, also known as Pillar Apple, has a pleasing aesthetic appearance, providing visual interest in gardens and landscapes with its narrow, columnar growth habit and attractive foliage.
• Spring blossoms: The plant offers a spectacular display of white to pink flowers in spring, which can enhance the beauty of any garden setting.
• Fall coloration: It features stunning autumn foliage, with leaves turning vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red, adding seasonal interest to the environment.
• Wildlife habitat: Pillar Apple can serve as a habitat and food source for a variety of wildlife, including birds and beneficial insects, which is important for maintaining biodiversity.
• Low maintenance: It is known for being relatively low maintenance compared to other ornamental trees, requiring less pruning and care once established.
• Shade and shelter: As a medium-sized tree, Pillar Apple can provide shade and shelter in landscapes, improving the microclimate and offering a comfortable space for relaxation.
• Erosion control: By establishing strong root systems, Malus tschonoskii can help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion in the landscape.

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

• Pillar of Honey Production: Pillars Apple can be used to produce apple blossom honey, known for its light color and mild flavor, making it a favorite among beekeepers and honey enthusiasts.
• Artistic Muse: Artists and photographers may be drawn to the Pillars Apple for its striking vertical form and visually appealing blossoms, capturing its beauty in various forms of art.
• Education and Research: Botanical gardens and universities might utilize Pillars Apple to study arboreal growth patterns and hybridization potential with other Malus species.
• Landscape Design: Due to its columnar growth habit, it can act as a natural privacy screen or a dramatic focal point in garden designs.
• Ice Cider Production: The fruit from Pillars Apple could be fermented into ice cider, a dessert cider made from apples frozen either before or after harvest, offering a concentrated sweet flavor.
• Wildlife Habitat: The tree's structure provides nesting sites for birds and its blossoms can attract a variety of pollinators, enriching local biodiversity.
• Bonsai Creation: The unique growth form of the Pillars Apple can be utilized in the art of bonsai, where its natural shape can be further styled and miniaturized.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Its spring blossoms and autumn fruits make it a natural choice for festivals that celebrate seasonal changes, especially in Asian cultures.
• Cultivar Comparative Studies: Gardeners and horticulturists can use Pillars Apple to compare growth habits and hardiness against other types of columnar apple trees.
• Craft Materials: Branches from the Pillars Apple can be used for crafting wreaths or incorporated into floral arrangements for their aesthetic appeal.

Feng Shui

The Pillar Apple Tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Pillar Apple Tree is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Endurance and Strength: The malus tschonoskii, commonly known as the Pillar Apple, is recognized for its hardiness and ability to withstand tough conditions, symbolizing the human qualities of endurance and strength.
• Renewal and Beginning: As a tree that blossoms in spring, the Pillar Apple is often associated with new beginnings and the rejuvenating power of nature.
• Temptation and Desire: Apple trees in general have a historical association with temptation and desire, hearkening back to various mythologies and religious stories, such as the tale of Adam and Eve in the Christian tradition.