Contents
Description
Malus Thunderchild, also known as Crabapple Thunderchild, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to North America and is a popular ornamental tree due to its beautiful pink flowers and crimson fruits. The tree has a rounded shape and can grow up to 20 feet tall and 25 feet wide. It blooms in late spring to early summer and produces fruits in the fall. Its leaves turn deep red in the fall before dropping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Malus |
Appearance
Malus Thunderchild has a rounded shape with a dense crown. Its leaves are dark green and have a glossy surface. The leaves are ovate to elliptic in shape and are 2 to 4 inches long. Its flowers are pink and are 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom in clusters of 3 to 5 in late spring to early summer. Its fruits are 1/2 inch in diameter and are a deep crimson color. The fruits persist on the tree into winter.
Care Guide
Malus Thunderchild prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH but prefers slightly acidic soil. The tree should be watered regularly but not overwatered. Fertilize the tree in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. It is hardy in zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malus Thunderchild is susceptible to fire blight, powdery mildew, and apple scab. Fire blight can be identified by blackening of the twigs and leaves. Powdery mildew presents as a white powdery substance on the leaves. Apple scab causes black spots on the leaves and fruits. Proper pruning and sanitation practices can help prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Malus Thunderchild is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and roadsides. It is commonly used as an ornamental tree in residential and commercial landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: When do Malus Thunderchild’s flowers bloom?
A: Malus Thunderchild’s flowers bloom in late spring to early summer.
Q: What is Malus Thunderchild’s hardiness zone?
A: Malus Thunderchild is hardy in zones 4 to 8.
Q: What is the size of Malus Thunderchild?
A: Malus Thunderchild can grow up to 20 feet tall and 25 feet wide.
Q: What color are Malus Thunderchild’s fruits?
A: Malus Thunderchild’s fruits are a deep crimson color.
Related Plants
- Malus ‘Adirondack’
- Malus ‘Candied Apple’
- Malus ‘Indian Summer’
- Malus ‘Prairiefire’
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.
- Gilman, E. F., & Watson, D. G. (1994). Malus Thunderchild. University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st301
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Malus x ‘Thunderchild’. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=243797&isprofile=0&
