European crab apple - Malus sylvestris (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Edible)

European crab apple

European crab apple (Malus sylvestris) is a plant species that can live to be one hundred years old. European crab apple is native to Europe and its latin name Malus sylvestris means forest apple. Caterpillars of the twin-spotted sphinx feed on the leaves of european crab apple. This species has been considered an important ancestor of the domestic apple.

Scientific classification

Species

European crab apple (Malus sylvestris)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

10 m

Plant Height

4 m to 8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Yellow, Green

Fruit Color

White, Pink

Flower Color

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of European crab apple

Distribution of European crab apple

Distribution Map

European crab apple is native to the temperate zone of Europe, extending east to the Caucasus region and has been introduced to other parts of the world. It is specifically cultivated for various purposes, indicating a broader range beyond its natural habitat. Its presence spans from its native regions to areas where it has adapted as a cultivated species.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, scrub and hedges

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Compact in size and exploding with springtime blooms, european crab apple trees are considered a must-have in smaller gardens. They provide year-round interest with their pink spring flowers, summer fruits, fall foliage, and winter shape. European crab apple trees also provide pollination for other types of apple trees, further increasing their popularity.

Interesting Facts

The loss of natural habitat has made european crab apple scarce in its native countries. However, preserved areas and seed banks have been set up to preserve and continue this species of tree. In its wild form, it has sharp thorns.

Name Story

European crab apple: European crab apple, or Malus sylvestris, is also known as wild apple. Its Latin name means “forest apple” and it is thought to be a relative to the first known cultivated apple tree. It is called the european crab apple because it is native to Europe.

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Toxicity

European crab apple poses a mild toxicity risk to humans, primarily through ingestion of seeds, leaves, and stems, containing hydrogen cyanide. Symptoms include dizziness and headaches. European crab apple is moderately toxic to cats causing shock if large amounts are consumed. In dogs, leaves, twigs, and seeds cause reactions like vomiting and diarrhea, with death being rare. Avoid accidental ingestion, especially by pets and children.

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Quickly Identify European crab apple

Showy white-pink flowers, 1 inch (2.5 cm) diameter, 5-parted petals.

Fruit: Firm, globular, 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm), with smooth skin.

Leaves: Alternate, ovate, serrated, 4-8 cm (1.6-3.1 in) long.

Robust single trunk, 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) diameter, dark gray-brown, scaly texture.

Bark: Grayish-brown with vertical fissures, contributes to gnarled appearance.

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Care Guide for European crab apple

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from temperate regions, european crab apple prefers moderate moisture and can endure short dry spells. Water every three weeks to keep the soil moist but not soggy, with reduced needs in winter during dormancy.

Fertilize: European crab apple thrives with balanced nutrition from equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer. Apply in early and late spring; reduce feeding in summer. Use 1/2 pound per trunk inch, water well after application, and avoid fall fertilization to prevent frost damage.

Pruning: European crab apple thrives with late winter pruning, which includes removing dead wood, thinning branches, and shaping the canopy for better air flow and light. This timing boosts overall health, flowering, and fruiting. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent damage and disease.

Propagation: European crab apple thrives with careful propagation techniques. Stratify seeds and sow in well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Semi-hardwood cuttings root well in peat-perlite mix. Grafting onto rootstocks enhances vigor and disease resistance. Focus on soil conditions and gentle root care for successful growth.

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Images of European crab apple

Distribution of European crab apple

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify European crab apple

Care Guide for European crab apple

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