Malus tschonoskii

The Malus tschonoskii, commonly known as flowering pillar crab apple, grows wild in the regions of Japan. It was introduced by the Arnold Arboretum from seed collected by C S Sargent in Nikko, Central Honshu, Japan.

Come spring the beautiful red winter buds begin to unfold. These open to almost perfect white leaves that contrast the deep red buds making the canopy appear like freshly iced yogurt and raspberries. The leaves become a lush healthy green in summer, but retain the white undersides. In autumn the foliage becomes one of the most striking features of the tree. Leaves will transition to beautiful shades of deep orange, copper bronze, firecracker reds and succulent purples, and with its tightly conical form, the tree resembles a flame on a candle.

Flowers will bloom in spring, and are white tinged with pink. These give way to green fruits which transition to a warm red and last long into winter. While not typically consumed by humans, they are a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.