Crab Apple

 Crab Apple
 Crab Apple

Common Names

  • Crabapple
  • American Crab Apple

Scientific Names

  • Malus
  • Rosaceae family
Basic Landscape Attributes
Height Range: 
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Crab Apple

History of
the Tree Species

  • A genus of 30-55 known species of small deciduous trees/shrubs
  • Originated in mountainous regions of Central Asia (modern day Kazakhstan)
  • Became popular cultivars and spread throughout the continent on the Silk Road, after which 800 distinct species were created
  • Genus is native to the temperate zone of the Northern Hemisphere
  • Popular ornamental trees for their blossoms (spring) and fruit (fall)
  • Some crabapples used as rootstocks and pollinizers to aid domestic apple growth and durability

Basic Growing Conditions

  • Full sun to partial shade
  • No specific soil preference but do best in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils
  • Adaptable to poor soil and drought onditions
Crab Apple
Crab Apple

Scientific Facts

  • Though the raw fruit isn't edible for humans, they can be used as condiments
  • Crabapple wood releases a pleasant aroma when burned slowly
  • The malic and tartaric acids within the fruits have been traditionally used to neutralize acidic effects of gout and indigestion

Location on tree on Shelby Ave: