Malus x adstringens

Zabel.

RosaceaeFruitPotential hazards — see below

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Carnegie Museum of Natural History

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Northern Illinois University Herbarium (DEK-)

What to Eat

Edible parts: Fruit

Fruit - raw or cooked. A rather acid flavour. The fruit is about 4 - 5cm in diameter.

Known Hazards

All members of this genus contain the toxin hydrogen cyanide in their seeds and possibly also in their leaves, but not in their fruits. Hydrogen cyanide is the substance that gives almonds their characteristic taste but it should only be consumed in very small quantities. Apple seeds do not normally contain very high quantities of hydrogen cyanide but, even so, should not be consumed in very large quantities. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Where to Find It

A hybrid species of garden origin, M. baccata x M. pumila.

Not known in the wild.

How to Identify

Malus x adstringens is a deciduous Tree. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

How to Grow

An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most fertile soils, preferring a moisture retentive well-drained loamy soil. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Prefers a sunny position but succeeds in partial shade though it fruits less well in such a situation. The fruit is a good wildlife food source, especially for birds. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus. A very ornamental plant, there are a great many named varieties. 'Robin', 'Hopa' and 'Tradescant' have all been mentioned for their edible fruit. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus.

Propagation: Seed - this is a hybrid species and will not breed true. The seed is best sown as soon as it is ripe in the autumn in a cold frame. It usually germinates in late winter. Stored seed requires stratification for 3 months at 1°c and should be sown in a cold frame as soon as it is received. It might not germinate for 12 months or more. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle. If given a rich compost they usually grow away quickly and can be large enough to plant out in late summer, though consider giving them some protection from the cold in their first winter. Otherwise, keep them in pots in a cold frame and plant them out in late spring of the following year. Cuttings of mature wood, November in a frame.

What to Eat

Known Hazards

Where to Find It

How to Identify

How to Grow

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