Species European crabapple
green-ruby fruits with lime-green leaves and pink-beige stems

European crabapple

Malus sylvestris

The European crabapple (Malus sylvestris) is a small deciduous tree native to Europe and western Asia. It grows up to 8 m high, with a rounded shape and light grey bark. Its leaves are ovate with serrated margins. Its fragrant white flowers bloom in the spring, and its fruits mature to a bright red color in the late summer. The fruits are edible and can be used to make jams and jellies. This species is suited for cold climates, requires little care, and can grow as a hedge or single tree. It is a popular ornamental tree, beloved for its vibrant foliage and fragrant blooms.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4

Flowers:

Showy, White, Pink, (deep pink in bud then flowers pale pink but some cv. more pink or all white) Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Fruits:

Fruits In Autumn Ready In

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Generally, the European crabapple should be watered on a regular basis when the soil is slightly dry. During spring and summer months, water the crabapple every 10 to 14 days in order to ensure it gets just enough water. During the fall and winter, water approximately once every 2 to 4 weeks. Be careful to not overwater the plant, as too much water can lead to the plant's death. Make sure the soil drains well and does not accumulate any standing water.

sunlight

European crabapple (Malus sylvestris) is best suited for full sun, meaning 6 or more hours of sunshine per day. The species prefers direct sunlight from early morning until late afternoon throughout the growing season. In the winter, however, it can tolerate limited amounts of direct sunlight and will even benefit from bright, indirect light. When first planting, try to give the tree 8-9 hours of sun during the early spring and summer months to ensure it has the maximum chance of producing healthy blooms and fruit.

pruning

European crabapple should be pruned in late winter or early spring, prior to buds beginning to swell. In order to promote a healthy, full appearance, remove dead, damaged, and crossing branches. If necessary, thin the interior of the canopy to increase airflow. Remove any suckers or watersprouts growing at the base of the trunk. It is not necessary to do extensive pruning, as European crabapple does not require much maintenance. Be sure to avoid pruning after late spring, as this could stimulate excessive, unchecked growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Malus sylvestris (European crabapple) typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

The European crabapple typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Malus sylvestris (European crabapple) typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map