Title

Common Apple

(F2133, June 2024)
File
Publication File:
Lead Author
Lead Author:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Availability
Availability:
Web only
Publication Sections

General
Scientific Name: Malus pumila
Family: Rosaceae (Rose)
Hardiness: Zone 3
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Tree

Growth
Rate: Medium
Mature Height: 15' - 25'
Longevity: Long
Power Line: Yes

Ornamental
Flowers: White to pink
Fruit: Large, ranging in color from green to red. Edible.
Fall Color: Yellow

Description

Native to Southeast Europe and has genetically contributed to the many cultivated fruiting apples. Most varieties are distinguished primarily by the fruit characteristics.

Preferences

Light: Full sun.
Water: Prefers moist soils.
Soil: Prefers heavy loamy soils. Adapted to a wide range of pH conditions.

Comments

Apples require more than one variety to set fruit; a crabapple can serve this purpose as well. Some recommended varieties for North Dakota: ‘Zestar!’- Striped red skin, crisper and better storage life than other early ripening varieties. ‘Duchess’- Medium to large size, Excellent for pies and sauce. ‘Goodland’- Creamy yellow, good for pies and fresh eating. ‘Red Baron’- Trees bear at a young age. ‘Sweet Sixteen’- Red apple, good for fresh eating. ‘Honeycrisp’- Most popular apple in Midwest, marginally hardy. ‘Haralson’- Top apple in the upper Midwest. Good for cooking. NDSU Extension publication H1558 — Starting a Community Orchard in North Dakota lists other recommended varieties. 

Common diseases include fireblight, black rot, cedar apple rust and apple scab. Common insects include apple maggots.

Apple Tree
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Common Apple
Common Apple
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Common Apple
Common Apple
Photo Credit:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Common Apple