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Plant Profiles / Crabapple
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Crabapple
Malus spp. and hybrids · Ornamental crabapple
A small tree smothered in pink or white spring blossom, followed by colourful little apples in autumn.
Full sunLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Best flowering in sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Keep moist in summer.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-25–35°C (-13–95°F)
CoolWarm
Very hardy.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
Grows 4–8 m.
Soil
Quality soil
LeanRich
Free-draining loam.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Slow-release fertiliser.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Seeds, leaves and stems toxic to pets.
About this plant
Crabapples are compact flowering trees bred from wild apples. Fruit can be made into jelly and feeds birds. Many cultivars suit pots and small gardens.
Best spots
Small gardens, courtyards and large pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Malus spp. and hybrids |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Origin | Northern hemisphere |
| Plant type | Deciduous tree |
| Mature size | 4–8 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | Pink or white blossom |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Grafting |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Flowering
Fruit
Prune
PlantFloweringFruitPrune
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Black spot | Choose resistant types. |
| Few flowers | More sun. |
| Codling moth | Remove fallen fruit. |
| Suckers | Remove from base. |
Common questions
Is the fruit edible?
Yes, cooked into jelly.
Is it pet safe?
No.
Can it grow in a pot?
Yes, compact types.
When to prune?
Winter.
