Contents
Description
Malus Transitoria, commonly known as the Cutleaf Crabapple, is a small deciduous tree native to eastern Asia. It belongs to the Rosaceae family and is known for its striking appearance and ornamental value. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and has a spread of 15 feet. It is often grown for its attractive foliage and flowers, as well as its small, edible fruit. The Cutleaf Crabapple is a popular choice for landscaping and is often used as a specimen tree or in group plantings.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Malus |
Appearance
The Cutleaf Crabapple has a distinctive appearance, with deeply cut, fern-like leaves that turn a beautiful orange-red in the fall. The tree produces small, fragrant white or pink flowers in the spring, followed by small, red or yellow fruit that are edible but tart. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, and the branches are often twisted and gnarled, adding to its ornamental value.
Care Guide
To care for a Cutleaf Crabapple, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, and sunlight. The tree prefers well-draining soil and should be watered deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering. The Cutleaf Crabapple thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Cutleaf Crabapple is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to apple scab, cedar apple rust, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Common pests that may affect the tree include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The Cutleaf Crabapple is native to eastern Asia and is commonly found in China, Korea, and Japan. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a range of habitats, including forests, meadows, and hillsides. The tree is often grown in gardens and parks for its ornamental value and is widely cultivated in North America and Europe.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the Cutleaf Crabapple edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible but is often described as tart or sour.
Q: Can the Cutleaf Crabapple be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune my Cutleaf Crabapple?
A: Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the tree as desired.
Q: Does the Cutleaf Crabapple attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree is attractive to birds and other wildlife that feed on its fruit and use its branches for nesting.
Related Plants
- Malus Domestica (Apple)
- Malus Floribunda (Japanese Flowering Crabapple)
- Malus Spectabilis (Chinese Crabapple)
- Malus Sylvestris (European Crabapple)
References
- “Malus Transitoria.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c880.
- “Cutleaf Crabapple.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/cutleaf-crabapple.
- “Crabapple.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13995/i-malus-i-cv-i-transitoria-i/details.
