Apple
Malus domestica
Last reviewed: September 2026
Toxicity unknown
Apple (Malus domestica) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
180"–360" H × 144"–300" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Native alternatives to Apple
Apple is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 452 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaApple trees are classic fruit trees that produce white to pink flowers in spring followed by edible apples in fall. They have a traditional rounded canopy and provide excellent shade while offering homegrown fruit for the family.
In an HOA neighborhood
Apple is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Fallen fruit requires cleanup to maintain tidy appearance
- May need regular pruning to maintain shape
Wildlife value
Spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The fruit provides food for birds and other wildlife when allowed to remain on the tree or fall naturally.
Common questions
- How much sun does Apple need?
- Apple grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Apple bloom?
- Apple blooms in April and May.
- What pollinators does Apple attract?
- Apple draws bees and beetles.
- Is Apple HOA-friendly?
- Apple is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
If something looks wrong
Common plant problems, and what to check first
These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.
- It is dying right after planting
- Leaves turning yellow
- Wilting even though I watered it
- Brown crispy leaf tips
- Bugs on the plant
Ready to grow Apple? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Planning a bed around it? Start a free plan with this plant
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz