Crab Apple or Malus Sylvestris is a beautiful native tree that brings colour, blossom and wildlife into the garden. With its spring blossom and small autumn fruits, Crab Apple offers a gentle cycle of renewal and abundance throughout the year.
Its manageable size and beautiful blossom make Crab Apple particularly well suited to garden planting.
Crab Apple through the seasons
Crab Apple brings colour and interest across the seasons. You can expect:
- Pink-tinged white blossom in spiring
- Fresh, green leaves throughout summer
- Small apples developing in autumn and often remaining on branches in winter
The small fruits of the Crab Apple tree are valued by birds and wildlife, making this an excellent tree for supporting nature.
Size and growth
Crab Apple grows into a small to medium-sized tree with an attractive, rounded shape.
- Typically reaches 6-10m in height once fully mature (20-50 years)
- Can span 4-8m in width
- Moderate growth rate
Unlike full-sized woodland trees, Crab Apple’s compact shape makes it well suited to practically any size of garden.
Growing conditions
- Best in full sun or partial shade
- Prefers well-drained soil
- Suitable in exposed or sheltered sites
- Grows well in most soil types, thrives in neutral to slightly acidic soils
Planting in a container
Our Crab Apple saplings can grow well in a large container for several years. This makes Crab Apple a good choice for families who may wish to begin their memorial tree in a pot. When the time is right, transferring to the ground will allow the tree to reach its full potential.
Is Crab Apple right for you?
For families looking for a blossoming, garden-scale memorial tree that celebrates the changing seasons and supports nature, a Crab Apple tree is a fantastic and uplifting choice.