Contents
Description
Malus Micromalus is a species of apple tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is also known as the Japanese crabapple, a name that reflects its origin in Japan. This tree is a deciduous tree that grows up to 9 meters in height and has a beautiful and vibrant appearance that makes it an excellent addition to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Malus |
| Species | Malus Micromalus |
Appearance
The Malus Micromalus tree has an attractive and vibrant appearance that is sure to captivate any gardener. It has a rounded shape with dense foliage that creates a canopy of leaves. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and bright green in color. In the springtime, the tree produces pink or white flowers that have a delightful fragrance. These flowers are followed by small, red or yellow fruit that is about the size of a cherry. The fruit is edible but not commonly eaten by humans due to its sour taste.
Care Guide
The Malus Micromalus tree is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your tree healthy:
- Water: Water your tree regularly, especially during dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer that will provide nutrients to the tree over time.
- Soil: The Malus Micromalus tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH.
- Sunlight: This tree thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Malus Micromalus tree is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Malus Micromalus tree is susceptible to several pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
- Apple scab: This fungal disease causes black spots on the leaves and fruit.
- Cedar apple rust: This fungal disease causes orange spots on the leaves and fruit.
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the leaves and can cause them to curl and deform.
- Codling moth: This insect lays its eggs on the fruit, and the larvae tunnel inside, causing damage.
Habitat
The Malus Micromalus tree is native to Japan but has been introduced to other parts of the world. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and gardens. This tree prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the fruit of the Malus Micromalus tree be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible, but it is not commonly eaten due to its sour taste.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Malus Micromalus tree?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect the Malus Micromalus tree?
A: Some common pests and diseases include apple scab, cedar apple rust, aphids, and codling moth.
Q: What is the appearance of the Malus Micromalus tree?
A: The tree has a rounded shape with dense foliage, small, oval-shaped, bright green leaves, pink or white flowers in the spring, and small, red or yellow fruit.
Related Plants
- Malus Domestica
- Malus Floribunda
- Malus Fusca
- Malus Pumila
References
- “Malus micromalus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a408. Accessed 28 May 2021.
- “Malus micromalus.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:732525-1. Accessed 28 May 2021.
- “Malus micromalus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/23151/Malus-micromalus/Details. Accessed 28 May 2021.
