Whether apple trees have thorns depends on the type. While many of the apple varieties cultivated for fruit production are thornless, the presence of thorns is a natural biological adaptation found in certain apple species. This characteristic serves specific functions, particularly in wild environments where trees face different challenges than those in orchards.
Understanding Apple Tree Thorns
Most apple trees commonly found in orchards, such as ‘Gala’ or ‘Fuji’, have been selectively bred over generations to be thornless for easier harvesting and management. However, many wild apple species, including crabapple varieties, do possess thorns. These thorns are sharp, woody outgrowths that typically appear on the branches and twigs of the tree. For instance, species like Malus baccata (Siberian crabapple) and some forms of Malus pumila (the wild ancestor of cultivated apples) can exhibit thorns.
The thorns on these wild species are a distinct part of the plant’s structure, differing from other growths. They are rigid and pointed, developing from modified stems or branches. Their presence is a natural feature in these specific apple lineages, reflecting their evolutionary history.
The Purpose of Thorns on Apple Trees
Thorns on apple trees are an evolutionary adaptation primarily serving as a defense mechanism. These sharp structures deter herbivores, such as deer, rabbits, and other browsing animals, from eating the tender shoots, leaves, and bark. By making the plant less appealing, thorns help protect the tree from damage, particularly when young and vulnerable.
This protective feature is especially important for apple trees in wild environments. In these settings, trees face constant foraging pressure from wildlife. Thorns contribute to the tree’s survival by minimizing herbivory, allowing it to conserve energy and grow more effectively.
Distinguishing Thorns from Other Tree Features
It is important to differentiate true thorns from other common growths on apple trees. One such feature is a fruit spur, which is a short, stubby woody growth responsible for producing flowers and, subsequently, fruit. Fruit spurs are typically blunt or rounded at the tip, designed for fruit bearing, and lack the sharp, pointed nature of a thorn.
Another feature that can cause confusion is a broken twig or pruning stub. These are simply remnants of damaged or cut branches and are not part of the tree’s natural defensive structures. True thorns are rigid, sharp, and integrated into the branch’s structure, whereas broken twigs are irregular and often brittle.