Apple-wikipedia.pdf

Apple Apple Blossoms, fruits, and leaves of the apple tree (Malus domestica) Scientific classification Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Rosales Family: Rosaceae Subfamily: Maloideae or Spiraeoideae [1] Tribe: Maleae Genus: Malus Species: M. domestica Binomial name Malus domestica Borkh. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia The apple is the pomaceous fruit of the apple tree, species Malus domestica in the rose family Rosaceae. It is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits. The tree originated from Central Asia, where its wild ancestor is still found today. There are more than 7,500 known cultivars of apples resulting in a range of desired characteristics. Cultivars vary in their yield and the ultimate size of the tree, even when grown on the same rootstock.[2] At least 55 million tons of apples were grown worldwide in 2005, with a value of about $10 billion. China produced about 35% of this total.[3] The United States is the second leading producer, with more than 7.5% of world production. Iran is third followed by Turkey, Russia, Italy and India. Contents 1 Botanical information 1.1 Wild ancestors 2 History 3 Cultural aspects 3.1 Germanic paganism 3.2 Greek mythology 3.3 Christianity 4 Apple cultivars 5 Apple production 5.1 Apple breeding 5.2 Apple Rootstocks 5.3 Pollination 5.4 Maturation and harvest 5.5 Storage 5.6 Pests and diseases 5.7 Records 6 Commerce 7 Human consumption 7.1 Fallen apples 7.2 Apple allergy 7.2.1 Symptoms 8 Health benefits 9 References 10 External links Botanical information The apple forms a tree that is small and deciduous, reaching 3 to 12 metres (9.8 to 39 ft) tall, with a broad, often densely twiggy crown.[4] The leaves are alternately arranged simple ovals 5 to 12 cm long and 3–6 centimetres (1.2–2.4 in) broad on a 2 to 5 centimetres (0.79 to 2.0 in) petiole with an acute tip, serrated margin and a slightly downy underside. Blossoms are produced in spring simultaneously with the budding of the