Malus toringo aka Toringa Crab Apple

Malus toringo is a small crabapple in the rose family. Its native range spans China, Korea, Sakhalin, and Japan. It grows in temperate parts of this region. Some sources call it Siebold crabapple or toringo crab. It has also spread beyond its native range. Introduced plants occur in Britain, Germany, and the Baltic States. They also occur in eastern Canada and the northeastern United States.

This plant grows as a shrub or small tree. Its dense crown spreads wider than it grows tall. Arching limbs give it a soft, partly weeping shape. Garden heights run about 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. One account gives a height of 9 feet [2.7 metres]. Widths range from about 8–15 feet [2.5–4.6 metres]. Growth is moderate, and full size takes 10–20 years. Young purple stems bear fine hairs, and branches may have thorns. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. They are dark green, oval, and lobed, sometimes deeply so. In fall, the leaves turn yellow before they drop.

Pink buds open into scented white flowers in mid-spring. Each flower measures about an inch across. The bloom can be heavy, with stronger displays in alternate years. Small pomes follow the flowers and ripen in fall. These yellow or red fruits measure about half an inch across. They last on the branches and draw birds. Small mammals and deer also feed on the plant. Yellow fall leaves set off the red fruit. Its broad shape suits hedges, barriers, and lawn plantings. It also fits flower borders and wildlife gardens.

Give it full sun for its preferred growing conditions. It also tolerates part shade and many soil types. Clay, loam, sand, and chalk are all suitable. Soil may be acid, neutral, or alkaline. It needs moist soil that drains well and moderate fertility. Established plants can cope with some drought. Sources place it in USDA zones 4–8 and UK rating H6. Prune as needed in late winter rather than spring. Spring cuts can give fire blight a way in.

Scab resistance does not rule out disease. Possible problems include canker, scab, fire blight, and powdery mildew. Rot, blossom wilt, and honey fungus may also occur. Aphids, mites, moths, beetles, and caterpillars can attack it. Deer can cause frequent damage. The fruit is edible, including when cooked, but remove toxic seeds. Flowers contain cyanide precursors despite their reported use in small amounts.