Malus prunifolia Chinese apple (Rosaceae) Deciduous tree

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Malus prunifolia
Chinese apple
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Malus prunifolia plant species is found in N.E. Asia? It is a member of the Rosaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Chinese apple.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Malus prunifolia
Common Name:  Chinese apple
Family:  Rosaceae
Author:  (Willd)Borkh.

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:  8

Habitat:  Not known in a truly wild state.

Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[183]. A bitter flavour[K]. Fruits we have tasted have been astringent rather than bitter, though some cultivars and forms are not at all bitter. A fruit of the species, tasted at Kew in October 1991, had a sweet pleasant taste, was mealy and of low acidity[K]. The fruit can be used fresh or in preserves etc. The fruit is about 20mm in diameter[200], though some forms are considerably larger[K].

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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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