Key features
Final size3 x 3 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves turn yellow in autumn (deciduous)
FlowersWhite spring flowers
FruitOrnamental red crab apples in autumn
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Malus Red Jade is an elegant Weeping Crab Apple tree, ideal for year round interest. The pendulous frame of this ornamental tree is covered in a profusion of white flowers, often with rosy tints, opening from pink buds in April-May. The mid-green foliage turns a tanned yellow in autumn and small, round crab apples appear, mostly red in colour with some yellow flushing.
This weeping tree will grow to just 3 x 3 metres in 20 years and is suited to all soil types, growing particularly well in moist, well-drained conditions. Malus Red Jade makes a splendid small garden tree, providing wildlife interest and an attractive display in the winter and can also be container grown.
AKA Malus × scheideckeri ‘Red Jade’, Weeping Crab Apple ‘Red Jade’
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Crab Apple trees require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
You can harvest culinary Crab Apples in early autumn or leave them for birds to enjoy. The trees should be pruned in winter but do not require hard pruning. Avoid trimming the tips of branches. Simply remove any dead or damaged branches and shoots at the base of the tree i.e. suckers and water sprouts.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
