The apple is native to Asia and is believed to have originated near the Caspian Sea. Both the seeds and trees were apparently introduced to North America in 1629 in the vicinity of Massachusetts.

"Johnny Appleseed" was a man named John Chapman, who carried apple seeds with him and planted them as he travelled west from Massachusetts to Indiana. Native Americans also planted apple seeds in their villages.

The apple is grown as a domestic crop throughout most of the United States. It is also found growing "wild" in most areas.