#23
Accession Number: 0023-0000
Common Name: Flowering Crabapple
Latin Name: Malus spp.
Family: Rosaceae (Rose Family)
Native Range: Many apple varieties are hybrids or selected cultivars, but crabapple species are native to North America and Asia
Height: 15–20 feet
Spread: 12–20 feet
Bloom Time: April
Bloom Description: Pink
USDA Hardiness Zone: 4
Light Preference: Full sun
Water Needs: Medium
Notes: Works well as a flowering tree; attracts birds, butterflies; fruit is showy, edible; tolerates air pollution
Description: The Malus genus includes 40 or more species of deciduous trees (including all of the edible apple varieties) and shrubs from Europe, Asia and North America. Crabapples are distinguished from their more mainstream counterparts by bearing much smaller, firmer fruit than conventional eating apples. Generally not palatable, the often sour or slightly bitter fruits can be used to make jelly, although they are enjoyed by a variety of wildlife. The main attraction of ornamental crabapple varieties are their compact size, spring blossoms, and clusters of attractive small fruits in the fall.
