Malus Orientalis - Caucasus apple

Malus Orientalis, known as the Caucasus apple, belongs to the Rosaceae family. This species is particularly interested in botanical and ecological research, since it provides important genetic resources for cultivating modern apple varieties (Malus Domestica). Malus Orientalis comes from the Caucasus region and the Middle East, where it grows in forests and on forest edges. The genus Malus comprises about 30 to 55 species that are distributed in the moderate zones of the northern hemisphere.

Morphological characteristics

Malus Orientalis is a diligent tree or shrub that can reach a height of 5 to 10 meters. The crown is wide and often irregularly shaped. The bark is smooth and gray -brown, it can be cracked in older specimens. The branches are thin, often provided with thorns and wear alternate leaves. The leaves are egg -shaped to elliptical, 5 to 10 centimeters long and 2 to 5 centimeters wide. They are shiny dark green on the top and lighter with a slightly hairy surface.

The flowers of Malus Orientalis appear in late spring to early summer and are arranged in umbels. Each umbel consists of five to seven flowers that have a diameter of about 3 to 4 centimeters. The petals are white up to pale pink and exude a pleasant fragrance. The flowers are hermaphrodite and are mainly pollinated by insects.

After flowering, small, spherical fruits develop that have a diameter of 1 to 3 centimeters. The fruits are colored yellowish-green to reddish in ripe and have a sour taste. Each fruit contains several small, brown seeds surrounded by a woody core.

Ecological claims and distribution

Malus Orientalis prefers sunny to partially shaded locations and thrives best in well -permeable, fertile soils. The plant is relatively resistant to dryness and can grow in different types of soil, including loamy, sandy and stony floors. It is hardy and can withstand temperatures up to -25 ° C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in moderate climates.

The natural spread of Malus Orientalis extends over the Caucasus region, the Northern Iran, Turkey and the surrounding areas. Because of its importance as a genetic resource and its decorative properties, it is also cultivated worldwide in botanical gardens and arboret.

Cultural and gardening importance

Malus Orientalis has a long history of use by people, especially with regard to their role in the development of cultivated apple varieties. The genetic diversity of this type offers valuable properties such as disease resistance and adaptability to various environmental conditions that can be used in breeding programs. In research, Malus Orientalis is examined to deepen the understanding of evolution and domestication of apple varieties.

In garden art, Malus Orientalis is estimated as an ornamental tree due to its attractive flowers and its compact size. It is well suited for formal and informal gardens as well as for mixed plantings and hedges. The plant contributes to aesthetic diversity and ecological value in gardens and landscapes.

Care and increase

The care of Malus Orientalis requires regular irrigation, especially during the first years after planting. An annual pruning promotes a dense growth shape and removes dead or damaged branches. The plant benefits from a layer of mulch around the basis that receives the soil moisture and suppresses weeds. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer supports growth and fruit formation.

The increase is mainly through seeds or finishing. Samples often have to be subjected to cold stamping to break the germ rest. The refinement on suitable documents is often practiced in commercial plant production in order to obtain certain varieties.