Key features
Final size5 x 4 metres in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves turn yellow in autumn (deciduous)
FlowersWhite-pink blossom in spring
FruitOrnamental yellow crab apples in autumn/winter
Eco benefitsGood for pollinators, food for wildlife
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Malus x floribunda, a Japanese Flowering Crab Apple, displays prolific pale-pink to white flowers that create a cloud of blossom over the foliage in April-May. The flowers emerge from deep-pink buds and open wide to create star-like shapes.
A mass of tiny, yellowy-green crab apples contrast beautifully with the foliage that has turned from mid-green to warm bronze in autumn. The decorative fruits provide a reliable food source for wildlife throughout the winter. Malus floribunda has a round head with subtley arching branches and grows to an estimated height and spread of 5 x 4 metres in 20 years
This Japanese Crab Apple tree is pollution tolerant and suited to most positions, preferring moist and well-drained soil in full or partial sun. Known as the Showy Crab Apple, it makes a beautiful small garden tree.
AKA Japanese crab, Showy crab apple, Malus floribunda
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.
