Origins of Apples
Apples originated in Central Asia, with their wild ancestor, Malus sieversii, found in Kazakhstan. This ancestor still exists today, hinting at ancient apple diversity.
Genetic Diversity
Apples have extreme genetic variability. Unlike humans, who have two sets of chromosomes, domestic apples have four, enabling a vast array of possible characteristics and flavors.
Apples Travel West
Silk Road traders brought apples to Europe, where the Romans refined cultivation. Later, colonists introduced European apple varieties to North America in the 17th century.
Johnny Appleseed Myth
John Chapman, aka Johnny Appleseed, planted nurseries rather than random seeds. His apples weren't for eating, but for producing hard cider, a frontier staple.
Gravity and Apples
The apple is famously associated with Newton's discovery of gravity. However, there's no evidence an apple actually fell on him, merely that he observed one falling.
Apples and Health
Apples contain compounds that may lower heart disease risk. They're high in fiber and vitamin C, and also have various antioxidants, including quercetin.
Toxic Apple Seeds
Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when digested. However, you'd need to crush and consume a high number of seeds for it to be dangerous.Glow-in-the-Dark Apples
Some wild apples in Kazakhstan have been found to glow under UV light, revealing a hidden world of apple diversity.
Where did apples originate?
Central Asia, Kazakhstan
Southern Europe, Italy
North America, Canada
Company
