They are considered too large for small gardens but those with a dwarfing rootstock could be planted, though falling fruit and leaves could be a nuisance. Their attraction is the many clusters of flowers appearing in mid to late spring, developing into colourful apple-like fruit in the autumn. The leaves are similar to domesticated apples. A bonus is the attractiveness of the blossom to bees. The fruit is a food source to other forms of wildlife and can be used for preserves. |
Malus coronaria ‘Charlotte’ is an open spreading late variety with semi-double pink tinted white flowers. The Japanes crab, Malus floribunda, is denser, with curved branches, heavy with pink flowers growing from red buds. Malus x purpura has crimson flowers.
Crab apples grow in any fertile, well drained soil, preferably in full sun. They are hardy to -300C. Many are susceptible to scab, canker, mildews and fireblight. Any weak growth should be removed to maintain shape. Propagation is by grafting on to root stocks. |
