Malus

Malus trees produce fruit in the form of Crab Apples. These are smaller than normal eating apples and are best used for jellies. Although there is no scientific distinction, apples that are smaller than two inches in diameter are considered to be Crab Apples. The taste is sourer than normal eating apples and they are much higher in antioxidants and vitamin C. They also make excellent natural bird feeders. Some varieties have very persistent fruit that remains on the tree well into winter, providing an excellent food source for birds.

Crab Apple trees are tolerant of almost any soil condition, except waterlogged, and are happy in full sun or partial shade. They will grow well in almost any garden. They are very disease-resistant and trouble-free. All Malus can be pruned hard to shape if required so they can grow in even the smallest garden. Some dwarf varieties and those grafted onto a dwarf rootstock are also ideal for keeping in a pot.

As well as dwarf varieties, Crab Apple trees can be very upright, growing in a column, weeping in an elegant umbrella shape, or spreading out like a mushroom. Most make a dainty tree that can be planted as a single specimen or grown in groups or borders with other plants.

We would highly recommend planting a Crab Apple tree. They are very ornamental and are not big trees. The range of fruit colour is spectacular: bright yellow, dazzling pink, verdant green, rich scarlet or deep purple. The leaves often display lovely autumn colour too. In spring the blossom can be pure white or varying shades of pink and red. The blossom is profuse and they make excellent pollinators for all other apple trees. Insects and bees love the flowers and the birds love the fruit so they are great for wildlife. Crab Apple trees make some of the very best garden trees.