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Description
Malus Sylvestris, commonly known as the European crabapple, is a species of fruit-bearing tree that is native to Europe. It belongs to the Rosaceae family, which includes other fruit trees such as apples, pears, and cherries. The tree is deciduous, meaning it sheds its leaves annually, and typically grows up to 10 meters tall. It is well-known for its beautiful flowers and fruits, which are often used to make jams and jellies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Malus |
Appearance
The European crabapple has a round crown and a dense branching system, which gives it a compact appearance. It has a grayish-brown bark that is smooth when young but becomes rough and scaly as the tree ages. Its leaves are oval-shaped and have a serrated edge. They are dark green in color and turn yellow or red in the fall. The tree produces pink or white flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, sour-tasting fruits that are yellow or red in color.
Care Guide
The European crabapple is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips to care for your tree:
- Water: Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package carefully.
- Soil: The European crabapple prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The European crabapple is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The European crabapple is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Apple scab: This fungal disease can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. It can be prevented by removing fallen leaves from around the tree in the fall.
- Cedar apple rust: This fungal disease can cause the leaves to develop yellow spots and the fruit to become deformed. It can be prevented by planting the tree away from cedar trees.
- Apple maggot: This insect can damage the fruit by tunneling inside. It can be prevented by using insecticidal sprays.
Habitat
The European crabapple is commonly found in Europe, where it grows in a range of habitats, including forests, hedgerows, and gardens. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can you eat the fruit of the European crabapple?
A: Yes, the fruit can be eaten but it is sour and is usually used to make jams and jellies.
Q: How often should I water my European crabapple tree?
A: Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize my European crabapple tree?
A: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package carefully.
Q: How tall does the European crabapple tree grow?
A: The tree typically grows up to 10 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Malus Domestica (apple tree)
- Malus Floribunda (Japanese crabapple)
- Malus Fusca (Oregon crabapple)
- Malus Pumila (wild apple)
References
- “Malus sylvestris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280871&isprofile=0&basic=malus%20sylvestris>.
- “Malus sylvestris.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 June 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9074/Malus-sylvestris/Details>.
- “Malus sylvestris.” The Morton Arboretum. Accessed 20 June 2021. <https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/european-crabapple>.
