Malus sylvestris aka Crab Apple
Taxonomy
Malus sylvestris, also known as the European crab apple, is small, rounded tree native to Europe. Its scientific name, which means "forest apple," reflects its natural habitat. This deciduous tree is typically found growing in the wild in wooded areas that contain oak trees. It can also be seen along forest edges, thickets, hedgerows, and roadsides. The tree has thorns and reaches a height of about 9m. It has mid-green leaves that can grow up to 8cm long and clusters of pink-tinged white flowers that are approximately 5cm across, blooming in late spring. These flowers are followed by yellow-green, sometimes red-flushed fruits that are 2-3cm across. Malus sylvestris is a valuable food source for many undomesticated animals. It can thrive in various soil types, including clay, and prefers a sunny location with moist soil for optimal fruit production. However, it can also tolerate partial shade.
Common names
Crab Apple, European Crab Apple, LoprHow to care for Crab Apple
Difficulty
Crab Apple requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Water
Crab Apple should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Its needs are relatively simple, but one of the most important is making sure its soil is adequately moist. Without proper moisture, the plant can suffer from wilting and stunted growth. To ensure your Crab Apple is healthy, you must choose a potting soil that retains moisture.
Look for a soil with good drainage to prevent root rot, but also make sure it contains plenty of organic matter. Coco coir and sphagnum moss are both excellent ingredients for retaining moisture and providing the #self.names with the nutrients it needs to thrive. If you can find a soil that has a combination of these ingredients, your #self.names will thank you with beautiful blooms.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Crab Apple prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Crab Apple to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Crab Apple is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Fertilizer
The growth of Crab Apple is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Region of origin
Crab Apple’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to Spain, Greece and S.W. Asia.
More info:
Wikipedia
