Flowering Crab Apple

Malus sp.

Rosaceae

This deciduous flowering tree is the most widely adapted of the flowering trees. It has a spreading growth habit that can extend from 20-25' tall and 20-30' wide. This tree flowers in early spring with white to pinkish-white or bicolored pink and white flowers. These flowers are 1 1/2" across in clusters of 5-7 flowers. Leaves are green, ovate to 2" long and are tooth edged. the fruit is red or yellow and stays on the tree until winter.

The Flowering CrabApple prefers well drained, fertile soil with full sun. It can tolerate light shade. The growth rate is moderate and responds well to fertilizing. Best adapted to colder regions where it can receive its full chilling requirement for flowering . Pruning is not required except to remove obstructing branches.

Best used in medium to large gardens planted singly. Good as a specimen or accent tree due to its flowers and fruit. Is susceptible to cotton root rot fungus as well as rust and leaf spots. Can also suffer from attacks of apple mildew or apple scale.