Title

Siberian Crabapple

(F2147, June 2024)
File
Publication File:
Lead Author
Lead Author:
Joseph Zeleznik, Ph.D., Extension Forester
Availability
Availability:
Web only
Publication Sections

Table of Contents

General 
Scientific Name: Malus baccata 
Family: Rosaceae (Rose) 
Hardiness: Zone 2 
Leaves: Deciduous 
Plant Type: Tree 

Growth 
Rate: Medium 
Mature Height: 25’-45’ 
Longevity: Medium 
Power Line: No 

Ornamental 
Flowers: White 
Fruit: Red 
Fall Color: Yellow

Description

Crabapples are a group of small flowering trees used for conservation and landscape plantings. They are valued for their foliage, fruit, flowers, wildlife benefits, and variations in form and size. Many varieties of conservation crabapples are hybrids of this species. Flowers and fruit are of particular interest. Siberian crabapple is the hardiest species of the Malus genus and produces white flowers. The largest tree in North Dakota is 32 feet tall with a canopy spread of 40 feet.

Preferences

Light: Full sun to part shade. 
Water: Medium. 
Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils.

Comments

A wide selection of cultivars are available in a variety of forms: 

  • Columnar Siberian crabapple (Malus baccata ‘Columnaris’) - Narrow, upright tree, highly fireblight susceptible. 
  • Midwest crabapple (M. baccata var. mandshurica ‘Midwest’) - Released by USDA-NRCS, Plant Materials Center, Bismarck, North Dakota. A cultivar seed strain.