Malus mandshurica - Manchurian berry apple

Malus mandshurica, also known as the Manchurian apple tree, is a deciduous tree species from the family of rose plants (rosaceae). This species is native to the temperate regions of East Asia, especially in northern China, Korea, Manchuria and Siberia. The Manchurian apple tree is estimated both because of its fertility and resistance as well as its decorative properties.

Morphology

Malus mandshurica is a medium -sized tree that reaches a height of 10 to 15 meters and is characterized by an expansive, often symmetrical crown. The bark of the tree is initially smooth and grayish, but becomes rougher with increasing age and develops deep, longitudinal furrows. The young branches are often reddish-brown and smooth, while older branches have a rough, woody texture.

The leaves are alternately arranged, egg -shaped to elliptical and have a serrated edge. You reach a length of 5 to 10 centimeters. The top of the leaf is dark green and smooth, while the underside is brighter and slightly hairy. In autumn, the leaves turn spectacularly in yellow and red tones, which makes the tree particularly attractive this season.

The flowers of Malus mandshurica appear in late spring, typically in May, and form large, dense tufts. They are white to delicate pink and have a diameter of about 3 to 4 centimeters. The petals are wide and slightly wavy, which gives the flowers a delicate, graceful appearance. The flowers are very fragrant and attract a variety of pollinators, especially bees and butterflies.

After flowering, small, spherical fruits develop that measure about 2 to 3 centimeters in diameter. The fruits are yellowish-green and often have a reddish cheek on the sunny side. The pulp is solid and sour, but quite edible, albeit less popular for direct consumption. The fruits ripen in late summer and autumn and often stay on the tree until the winter, which offers birds and other animals an important source of food.

Distribution and habitat

Malus mandshurica is widespread in the moderate zones of East Asia. The species is mainly at home in the cool-moist forests of Northern China, in Korea and in Manchuria, where it grows up to 1,500 meters above sea level at altitudes. The tree thrives in a variety of floors, but prefers well permeable, slightly acidic to neutral soils. Malus mandshurica is adapted to cold winter and short vegetation periods and can survive in regions with extreme climate conditions.

Ecology and reproduction

Malus mandshurica plays an important role in the ecosystems of his home regions. The flowers offer an important source of food for pollinators in spring, while the fruits are consumed by birds and mammals in autumn and winter. These animals contribute to the spread of the seeds by eating the fruits and spreading the seeds over long distances.

The reproduction is mainly via seeds that germinate in the ground after the spread. Malus mandshurica's seeds need a cold period (stratification) to successfully germinate, which is an adaptation to the climatic conditions in their natural distribution area. The tree can also multiply vegetatively through root sprouts, which is used in cultures to produce genetically identical offspring.

Meaning and use

Malus mandshurica has a variety of applications, both in the wilderness and in culture. Due to their robustness and frost hardness, the species is often used as a document for the finishing of cultivated apple varieties, especially in regions with extreme winter conditions. The species is also an important genetic resource dispenser in breeding new apple varieties, especially those that are resistant to diseases and pests.

In addition, Malus mandshurica is estimated as an ornamental tree, especially in parks and gardens, where it is planted because of its attractive flowers and autumn color. The luminous flowers and the compact fruits give the tree an aesthetic attraction that makes it particularly popular in scenic environments.