Malus florentina (Rosaceae) Deciduous tree

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Malus florentina
Deciduous tree
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The Malus florentina plant species is found in Europe - Northern Italy. It is a member of the Rosaceae family. Some home gardeners know the variety as Crataegus florentina. Pyrus crataegifolia. Malosorbus florentina.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Malus florentina
Family:  Rosaceae
Author:  (Zucc.)Schneid.

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.

Mature Height:  8   Mature Width:  6

Habitat:  Not known

Cultivation Notes: An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most fertile soils, preferring a moisture retentive well-drained loamy soil[1, 200]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Prefers a sunny position but succeeds in partial shade, though it fruits less well in such a situation[200]. This species is a very good pollinator for the cultivated apples[200]. The fruit is a good wildlife food source, especially for birds[200]. A very ornamental tree, especially when flowering in the spring, it makes a good specimen tree in a lawn[11]. Some botanists believe this species to be a bigeneric hybrid between M. sylvestris and Sorbus torminalis. They have assigned the name Malosorbus florentina to the plant, but this is not generally accepted[11]. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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