This gnarly beauty has had a commanding view of this field for over a century. It’s what the Maine Extension Service calls a “wild apple tree.” That is, it’s a tree that originated in a commercial orchard or was planted to supply a homestead farm with fruit, but has been abandoned as a primary fruit producer.
Wild apple trees may be pruned by their owners or left to “go natural”; their apples may be pressed for home cider, or the trees may be left to supply shelter and/or food for wildlife, including White-Tailed Deer and more than 30 species of birds.
Apple trees are not native to this country. They were brought to Maine initially in the 16th Century by European fisherman who planted them on our sea islands and in coastal areas where the men camped. They provided much-needed vitamin C and fiber to the fishermen. (Brooklin, Maine; image taken February 20, 2021)