Crabapples: A Comprehensive Guide

What Are Crabapples?

Crabapples (Malus spp.) are small to medium-sized deciduous trees, often known for their vibrant flowers and small, colourful fruit. They are closely related to regular apples (Malus domestica), but the primary difference lies in the size of the fruit.

By definition, the fruit of a crabapple is less than 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. If the fruit is larger, it is classified as a regular apple. Despite this distinction, crabapples and apples share the same genus and are closely related in terms of growth habits and care. Crabapple trees are also known for their ornamental qualities and are often planted for their stunning flowers, which bloom in the spring, as well as for their vibrant fall foliage.

Differences Between Crabapples and Regular Apples

While crabapples and regular apples are nearly identical botanically, there are key differences that make each unique in a garden setting:

• Fruit Size: Crabapples bear smaller fruit, typically under 2 inches in diameter. Regular apples, on the other hand, produce larger fruits.
• Taste: Crabapples are generally more sour and tart than regular apples. While many are too tart to eat raw, some varieties can be used for making jellies, sauces, and ciders. In contrast, regular apples are usually bred for sweeter or more balanced flavours suitable for fresh eating.
• Ornamental Value: Crabapples are often planted primarily for their ornamental value. Their small, attractive fruits stay on the tree longer and their spring blossoms create a stunning visual display. Regular apple trees are usually grown for fruit production, with less emphasis on their ornamental qualities.
• Wildlife Attraction: The small fruits of crabapples are an important food source for birds and other wildlife, particularly in winter. Regular apples are less likely to provide this same wildlife benefit unless fallen fruits are left on the ground.

Benefits of Planting Crabapples

Crabapples are versatile trees that offer a wide range of benefits, making them ideal for many different types of gardens.

1. Year-Round Interest: Crabapples provide aesthetic beauty throughout all four seasons. In spring, they bloom with vibrant pink, red, or white blossoms that add a splash of colour to the landscape. During summer, their lush green foliage creates shade and structure. In autumn, the leaves turn shades of yellow, orange, and red, while the colourful fruit remains on the tree well into winter.
2. Wildlife Habitat: Crabapple trees are a magnet for wildlife. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the fruit provides a valuable food source for birds, squirrels, and other animals, especially during the colder months when other food sources are scarce.
3. Pollination for Other Apple Varieties: Crabapples are excellent pollinators for regular apple trees. Many apple varieties need cross-pollination from another apple tree to bear fruit, and crabapples are highly effective in this role. Their long bloom time overlaps with many apple varieties, ensuring successful pollination.
4. Low Maintenance: Once established, crabapple trees are relatively easy to care for and are hardy in a wide range of climates. They are adaptable to different soil types and conditions, making them ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
5. Edible Uses: While the fruit of most crabapple varieties is too tart to eat raw, they are perfect for making jellies, sauces, and ciders. Their tart flavour adds complexity to preserves and alcoholic beverages like cider, and they’re often used in traditional recipes for these purposes.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Crabapple trees are relatively adaptable and hardy, making them a good choice for a variety of climates and soil types. However, they do have some specific growing requirements that can help ensure they thrive.

1. Soil: Crabapples prefer well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH that ranges from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0). They will tolerate a range of soil conditions, including sandy or clay soils, but they don’t do well in waterlogged areas.
2. Sunlight: Full sun is essential for crabapple trees to flourish. They require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to ensure healthy growth, vibrant blooms, and abundant fruit production.
3. Watering: Young crabapple trees need regular watering to establish a strong root system. Once mature, they become more drought-tolerant, but they will still benefit from occasional deep watering, especially during dry periods.
4. Spacing: Depending on the variety, crabapple trees should be spaced about 15 to 20 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and prevent diseases such as mildew and rust.
5. Climate: Crabapples are hardy, making them suitable for a wide range of temperate climates. They can handle cold winters and are resistant to frost damage once established.

Malus ‘Golden Hornet‘ is a popular crabapple variety known for its eye-catching golden-yellow fruits that adorn the tree in late summer and persist well into winter, making it a standout feature in any garden. In spring, ‘Golden Hornet’ produces clusters of delicate white blossoms, providing an attractive display that also supports pollinators like bees. Its compact, upright growth habit makes it suitable for smaller gardens or urban settings, and its fruits are a valuable food source for birds during the colder months. Additionally, ‘Golden Hornet’ is a good pollinator for apple trees, making it a practical choice for ornamental and productive gardens. With its high disease resistance, including tolerance to apple scab, this low-maintenance tree offers year-round beauty with minimal effort.