MalusSorten

MalusSorten refers to the cultivated varieties of apple trees within the genus Malus. This genus includes not only the common apple (Malus domestica) but also several ornamental crabapple species. The term "Sorten" is German for varieties or cultivars, indicating a focus on the diverse types of apples and crabapples that have been developed or discovered.

Malus domestica cultivars are the apples primarily grown for fruit consumption. Thousands of such varieties exist worldwide, each with distinct characteristics regarding taste, texture, color, size, and storage ability. These range from widely popular commercial varieties like Gala, Fuji, and Red Delicious, to heirloom or heritage apples such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Golden Delicious, which are often prized for their unique qualities or historical significance. The development of new MalusSorten is an ongoing process, driven by breeders seeking improved disease resistance, yield, flavor profiles, and adaptability to different climates.

In addition to edible apples, the Malus genus also encompasses numerous ornamental crabapple varieties. These are typically smaller trees or shrubs known for their abundant spring blossoms, often in shades of white, pink, or red, and their decorative fruits, which are usually too tart or small for direct consumption but are attractive to wildlife and can be used for jellies and preserves. Examples include Malus 'Radiant' and Malus 'Coralburst'. The term MalusSorten, therefore, encompasses this full spectrum of cultivated apple and crabapple types.