Flowering Crabapple
Malus spp. · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Flowering Tree
Variety / Cultivar
General species representation, highly variable across numerous ornamental cultivars
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8, adaptable to various continental and temperate climates
About This Tree
A small to medium deciduous tree typically featuring a rounded or spreading canopy, often multi-stemmed or low-branching as shown in the image, with moderate growth rate and profuse spring blooms
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves with serrated margins, elliptic to ovate shape, green during summer transitioning to yellow or bronze in autumn
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown bark with rough texture, developing shallow fissures and occasional scaly plates or ridges with age
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere including Asia, Europe, and North America
Growing Season
Spring flowering following leaf emergence, producing small pome fruits in summer that persist into winter, followed by dormancy in late autumn
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for best flowering and disease resistance, moderate watering needs with good drought tolerance once established
Mature Size
Mature height of 15 to 25 feet with a similar spread, moderate growth rate, and a typical lifespan of 30 to 70 years
Special Characteristics
Known for spectacular spring floral displays, persistent colorful crabapple fruits, and good tolerance to urban pollution
Wildlife & Ecology
Highly valuable to wildlife, providing nectar for pollinators in spring and serving as an important food source for birds and small mammals feeding on the fruits