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Malus hybrids - Crab apples
The genus Malus, which is native to the northern hemisphere, comprises 30 species. This has resulted in the immense abundance of fruit varieties and ornamental forms. Only a few wild species are available, as they have a rather modest appearance compared to the ornamental apples. What the plant lover encounters in woods and field hedges as supposedly natural forms are mostly feral seedlings of fruit varieties
The exact number of hybrids cannot be stated, but estimates range from 700-800. Cultivators in the USA have been especially concerned with improving the assortment. Their profuse flowers, pleasantly sweet fragrance, various habits, and colourful autumn fruit are impressive.
Overview
Malus hybrids, white-flowering varieties
Malus hybrids, pink- and red-flowering varieties
Specifications:
Origin:
Wild varieties Europe, Asia, North America
Habit:
The various habits and sizes range from broad, low shrubs to slender, upright, small trees.
Flower:
The flowers appear two-tone as the buds are always darker than the open flowers. The flowering time is usually 10-14 days, the earliest varieties starting at the beginning of May, the latest at the end of May to the beginning of June, insect friendly.
Fruit:
a) Many varieties have miniature apples, cherry-size, 1-2 cm in diameter; they are plentiful in colours ranging from yellow to orange and red; they are theoretically edible, but not worth the trouble. They remain on the tree a long time, often into December.
b) Some varieties have larger fruit that are more useful. The varieties with larger fruit ripen as early as September, while their colours are usually modest.
b) Some varieties have larger fruit that are more useful. The varieties with larger fruit ripen as early as September, while their colours are usually modest.
Leaves:
The leaves are less decorative, usually elliptical, sometimes lobed. The red-flower varieties have deep red shoots but rarely autumn colours.
Roots:
Cordate, sensitive to digging and paving; runners may be formed if roots are damaged.
Demands:
Sun to light shade, sensitive to heat, flowers bleach in hot and dry areas and only flowers for 2-4 days, losing leaves early in later summer; frost hardy; moderately suited for urban areas, sufficient for industrial areas; wind protection recommended as flowers are otherwise blown away.
Soil:
Moderately dry to fresh, slightly acidic to alkaline (pH value 5.0-7.5 and also observed above that); well drained substrates are important, sandy-loamy to loamy; not growing on heavy soil, sensitive to salt.
Hardiness:
Zone 5