Crabapple
Malus spp. · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental and flowering tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard ornamental crabapple
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8, showing strong adaptability to various temperate climates
About This Tree
A small to medium-sized deciduous tree with a rounded to spreading canopy, twiggy branching, and abundant small colorful fruits hanging from long stems
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves with finely serrated margins, elliptic to ovate shape, green summer color turning yellow or bronze in autumn
Bark Characteristics
Grayish-brown bark that is smooth on young branches and becomes slightly furrowed, scaly, or ridged with age
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere including North America, Europe, and Asia
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring, produces abundant blossoms in mid-spring, forms small pome fruits in summer that mature in autumn before dropping leaves and entering winter dormancy
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for best flowering and fruiting; moderate watering needs with good drought tolerance once established
Mature Size
Typically reaches 15 to 25 feet in height with a similar spread, growing at a moderate rate with a lifespan of 30 to 70 years
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for ornamental spring blooms, persistent or edible small fruit, good urban pollution tolerance, and seasonal interest
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides essential food for birds and small mammals through its fruits, nectar for pollinators during spring flowering, and dense nesting cover