Malus sieversii

Malus sieversii is a deciduous tree in the rose family. Its common names include crabapple and wild Kazakh apple. It comes from Central Asia, including Kazakhstan and western China. Its range also includes Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It grows in mountain woods, on slopes, and beside valley streams. In some mountain forests, it forms the main tree cover.

This tree reaches about 26 feet [8 metres] in height. It loses its leaves during the dormant season. Flowers open in May and have both male and female parts. Insects pollinate them, and seeds ripen from September to October. This species can cross freely with other members of Malus. It is thought to be the main ancestor of cultivated apples. That link gives its wild fruit value for apple breeding.

The fruit is edible raw or cooked and has good flavour. Most fruit measures 0.10–0.16 feet [0.03–0.05 metres] across. Larger fruit can reach 0.23 feet [0.07 metres] across. Birds eat the fruit, which also feeds other wildlife. The tree suits woodland gardens, sunny edges, and sites with dappled shade. Its food value makes it useful in a food forest. PFAF lists no known medicinal uses or other uses beyond food.

This species is easy to grow in most fertile soils. It favours loam that holds moisture yet lets excess water drain. It also grows in sandy soil and heavy clay. Mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils all suit it. Give it sun for the best fruit crop. It tolerates partial shade, but fruit production falls there. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 4–10 and describes it as frost hardy. The source warns that exploitation and its limited range threaten its survival.

Fresh seed can go into a cold frame in autumn. Stored seed needs three months of cold treatment at 1°C. Germination may take a year or longer. Young plants may need shelter during their first winter. The flesh is edible, but seeds need care. PFAF warns that Malus seeds contain hydrogen cyanide; leaves may contain it too. Large amounts can cause severe poisoning, including breathing failure. This warning does not apply to the fruit flesh.