Description
Small, spreading tree with showy, spring flowers followed by decorative crabapples that remain on the tree for several months. Depending on variety, the flowers vary from white to dark pink. Crabapples are small (1/4 inch to 1 inch), and dry and mealy—not gooey. Birds are attracted to the fruit.
There are several varieties available; check the plant tag at the nursery for the foliage, bloom, fruit, and fall color. Two favorites are:
- Japanese Crabapple with pink flowers, yellow fruit and yellow-to-red fall leaf color.
- Prairifire Crabapple with dark-pink flowers, maroon leaves and small, dark red, dangling fruit in summer and fall; leaves turn red in the fall.
Size
Height: 15 to 25 feet
Spread: 15 to 25 feet
Growth Rate: moderate
Irrigation needed: medium water
Fall Color: yellow to red
Flowers: large, pink or white flowers
Seeds/Fruit: small (1/4- to 1-inch) crabapples, yellow to maroon
Planting Distances
Front of green utility box: 8 feet
Building, paving, swimming pool: 6 feet
Fence, underground utilities: 3 feet
OK to plant under high voltage lines
