Description: Malus floribunda is a small deciduous tree prized for its abundant spring blossoms and ornamental fruit. It is widely cultivated for its profusion of pink to white flowers and its ability to attract pollinators.

Flowers:

• Blooms: Masses of pink to white flowers cover the tree in spring, creating a stunning floral display. The flowers are typically single or semi-double and are borne in clusters.
• Fragrance: The flowers may have a subtle fragrance that varies among cultivars, enhancing the garden ambiance.

Fruit:

• Fruit: Small, spherical fruit that varies in color from yellow to red, persisting on the tree into winter. The fruit is generally not edible raw but can be used for making jams or jellies.

Foliage:

• Leaves: Dark green foliage turns yellow to bronze in autumn before dropping, providing additional seasonal interest.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 4-8 meters tall and wide, forming a rounded canopy with age.
• Habit: Upright and spreading, developing a picturesque, broad crown.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in temperate to cool climates, suitable for many regions of Australia. It prefers mild summers and cool winters.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil enriched with organic matter. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Morning sun with afternoon shade can help protect against intense heat.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is crucial. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance but benefits from consistent moisture during dry periods.

Uses:

• Landscape Feature: Ideal as a specimen tree in gardens, parks, and larger landscapes, where its spring blooms and ornamental fruit provide year-round interest.
• Pollinator Garden: Attracts bees and other pollinators with its abundant spring flowers.
• Ornamental Appeal: Adds visual interest with its spring blossoms and colorful fruit, suitable for mixed borders or as a standalone feature.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Minimal pruning is required to maintain its natural shape. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to early spring.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. Monitor for aphids, caterpillars, and apple scab, especially in humid conditions.

Notes:

• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. In cooler regions of Australia, protect from late frosts that can damage flowers and young leaves.

Companion Plants: Underplant with spring bulbs like daffodils or ground covers such as vinca or heuchera for additional seasonal interest

Malus floribunda (Crab Apple)

Common Name: Crab Apple

Botanical Name: Malus floribunda

Family: Rosaceae

Origin: Native to Eastern Asia

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