Crabapples

Crabapples

Crabapples are small, deciduous trees or shrubs in the genus Malus, which is part of the family Rosaceae. They are known for their beautiful blossoms and small, tart fruit. Crabapples are often used in ornamental landscaping and can also be used to make jellies and ciders.

Description

Crabapple trees are typically small to medium-sized, reaching heights of 4 to 12 meters. They have a rounded crown and can be either deciduous or semi-evergreen. The leaves are simple, ovate, and have serrated margins. In spring, crabapples produce a profusion of flowers that can be white, pink, or red, depending on the species or cultivar.

Fruit

The fruit of crabapples is small, usually less than 5 cm in diameter, and can be red, yellow, or green. Unlike the larger apples, crabapples are generally too tart to be eaten raw but are excellent for making preserves, such as crabapple jelly, and for use in ciders.

Cultivation

Crabapples are hardy trees that can grow in a variety of soil types, though they prefer well-drained soil. They are tolerant of urban conditions and can withstand pollution, making them popular choices for city landscaping. Crabapples require full sun for optimal flowering and fruiting.

Uses

Crabapples are primarily grown for their ornamental value. The trees are prized for their spring blossoms and attractive fruit, which can persist into winter. The fruit is also used in culinary applications, such as making jellies and ciders. Additionally, crabapples can serve as pollinators for domestic apple trees, as they bloom at the same time.

Pests and Diseases

Crabapples are susceptible to several pests and diseases, including apple scab, fire blight, and cedar-apple rust. Proper care and resistant cultivars can help mitigate these issues.

Related pages

• Apple
• Rosaceae
• Ornamental tree