Crab Apple ‘Maypole Column’ is a unique variety with a columnar habit that is perfect for narrow growing spaces. Fresh leaves emerge with a reddish tint and turn green with purple-red hues, providing colour and interest even when not in flower. Beautiful dark pink blossom will decorate its branches in spring which will attract a wealth of pollinating insects and makes it a superb pollinator to other apples varieties. Small, purple-red fruits with red-stained flesh will follow and can be harvested from September. Their tart flavour makes these apples perfect for making crab apple jellies and sauces, or add to cider to add colour and sweetness. Crab Apple ‘Maypole Column’ is an upright tree with very few side branches, forming a narrow tree only two feet wide that can be topped at any height up to 3.5 metres. Ideal for growing in a container, against a wall or in a small sunny border.Height: 3.5m (11.5ft). Spread: 60cm (24in).Pollination group: B. Crab Apple ‘Maypole’ is partially self-fertile and requires a pollination partner to set fruit successfully.
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. Crab Apple ‘Maypole Column’ requires a well sheltered position to prevent damage to fruit buds from wind and cold as side branches may develop when buds are damaged.
