All About the Crabapple:
Scientific Nomenclature: Malus angustifolia, Malus coronaria, Malus ioensis, Malus brevipes
Common Names: crabapple, wild apple
Mature Height: 15–25 feet
Mature Spread: 10–20 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Attracts Wildlife: Birds and pollinators
Messiness: Leaves drop in autumn. Flowers bloom in spring and last very little time, especially depending on the weather. Fruits are small pomes that mature in autumn; some select species have fruits that persist through winter but most drop earlier.
Shape: Vase/Pyramidal
Native to Kentucky: Yes
Preferred Soils: Crabapple varietals are tolerant of various soil types but prefer slightly acidic (<6.0pH), moist, well-drained clay or loam soils.
Screening: Is not useful as a screening or privacy tree though it is often used as a border tree.
Drought Tolerance: Is not very drought tolerant.
Coniferous or Deciduous: Deciduous
Pruning: Crabapples are relatively easy to maintain. Pruning should be done to remove deadwood from the tree and keep the tree’s shape. Pruning should occur in late winter or early spring while the tree is still dormant. Crabapples tend to sucker and grow water sprouts; these should be removed to control the density of the crown and help prevent the spread of disease.
Climate Quick Facts:
Following being planted as a sapling, over 20 years one common crabapple varietal will:
- Sequester ~959 pounds of CO2.
- Reduce stormwater runoff by 304 gallons.