The apple is the pomaceous fruit of the apple tree, species Malus domestica in the rose family (Rosaceae). It is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits, and the most widely known of the many members of genus Malus that are used by humans. Apples grow onsmall, deciduou trees. The tree originate in Central Asia, where its wild ancestor, Malus sieversii, is still found today. Apples have been grownfor thousands of years in Asia and Europe, and were brought to North America by European colonist. Apples have been present in the mythology and religions of many cultures, including Norse, Greek and Christian traditions. In 2010, the fruit's genome was decoded, leading to new understandings of disease control and selective breeding in apple production.

Tere are more than 7,500 known cultivars of apples, resulting in a range of desired characteristics. Different cultivars are bred for various tastes and uses, including cooking, fresh eating and cider production

. Domestic apples are generally propagated by grafting, although wild applesgrow readily from seed. Trees are prone to a number of fungal, bacterial and pest ms, which can be controlled by a number of organic and non-organicmeans.

About 69 million tons of apples were grown worldwide in 2010, and China produced almost half of this total. The United States is the

second-leading producer, with more than 6% of world production. Turkey is third,

followed by Italy, India and Poland. Apples are often eaten raw, but can also be found in many prepared foods (especially desserts) and drinks. Many beneficial health effects are thought to result from eating apples; however, two forms of allergies are seen to various proteins found in the fruit.