Malus sylvestris

Category: Hedge and forest plants — Wild apple

Malus sylvestris is a native, slow-growing tree that can reach a height of 7 to 9 meters. Starting in April, it blooms with fragrant, pinkish-white flowers that attract bees and other insects. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow to orange, creating beautiful fall color. The crab apple grows best in sunny to partially shaded locations with moderately moist, nutrient-rich soil. It is winter-hardy and frost-resistant. The species is fairly disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to scab in wet conditions. The small, tart fruits are not poisonous but are rarely eaten raw; they are suitable for processing into jelly or cider, for example.