About The Apple Malus domestica

TAXONOMY The cultivated apple, Malus domestica , belongs to the Rosaaceae (Rose) Family, and the subfamily of Pomoideae; along with pear, quince, lo quat and medlar. Throughout its history of cultivation, at least 10 ,0 0 apple cultivars were developed, many of which are now lost. This was due in part to the older practice of seed propagation. Commercially there are about 100 cultivars currentl y being grown commercially, but only 10 of the most popular make up over 90% of US production.