Explore the world of the Malus pumila, commonly known as the Apple or Paradise Apple. This deciduous tree is a wonder of nature, ranging from 6 to 15 feet tall when cultivated and stretching up to 30 feet in its wild form. Its size, shape, and overall appeal are dependent on a mix of rootstock selection and specific trimming methods. Adorned with alternating dark green leaves, the tree possesses a visual charm that’s hard to miss. The leaves are elegantly shaped ovals with serrated margins and a slightly downy underside, enhancing its unique charm.
With spring comes a burst of white flowers, touched with a soft pink that gradually fades. These blossoms appear alongside the budding leaves, sprouting on spurs and long shoots. Each inflorescence is a captivating display of 4–6 flowers with a central "king bloom," which opens first and potentially develops into a larger fruit.
Witness the apple come to maturity in late summer or autumn in a wide range of sizes. The radiant skin of ripe apples can range from red, yellow, green, pink, to russet, offering a visual feast. Some exhibit bi- or tri-colored hues while others might present a rough and brown russeted appearance. This skin encases the lush exocarp, typically a pale yellowish-white, with pink or yellow exocarps occasionally observed.