Malus (Crab Apple) ‘Butterball’ is a tiny, compact tree with an appealing spreading habit that makes an eye-catching focal point in the garden. This alluring deciduous tree’s branches are brimming with glowing, golden fruits. It is a beautiful specimen tree that also serves as a pollinator for many eating apples. The fruits are an important food source for wild birds and can also be used to make crab apple jelly. In the autumn, it’s quite spectacular! The dark green foliage turns orange and gold in autumn, creating a colourful backdrop for the ripening fruits. It’s just as lovely in the spring, when the branches are adorned with pretty, pink-flushed buds that open into white blossoms. Height: 5m (16’). Spread: 4m (13’).
Growing Information
Plant crab apple trees in a sheltered, sunny position in any fertile, well drained soil. Prior to planting, incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost into the planting hole and drive the stake into the ground to support the tree. Staking after planting may result in damage to the root ball. Plant fruit trees at their original soil level and firm them into the ground. Fasten the tree to the stake using a tree tie, and water well.
