The apple is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruit. Originating in Western Asia, applies have been grown for centuries in Asia and Europe. European colonists brought the apple to North America. More than 7,500 apple cultivars are known; different cultivars are bred for specific uses. In 2010, China produced more than half of the more than 70 million tons grown worldwide. The United States is the second-leading producer, with nearly seven percent of the world production. While many beneficial health effects are attributed to apples, their seeds are somewhat poisonous because of their cyanide content.