Malus sylvestris

Malus sylvestris, commonly known as common crab apple, is a native tree found naturally on the edges of woodlands and in hedgerows. With rich historical and cultural significance, Malus sylvestris is considered the ancestor of many cultivated apple varieties. These small trees may live to 100 years and over time will develop a gnarled look.

During spring, the common crab apple produces beautiful and sweet-scented white blossoms. Once the tree has been successfully pollinated, flowers will give way to small round crab apples. These are red-blushed and enjoyed by wildlife, particularly wild ponies in the New Forest. When leaves have dropped, keep an eye out for mistletoe as crab apples are one of the few trees that can host this parasitic plant.

Due to habitat loss and wild hybridisation with cultivated apple trees, wild crab trees have declined in some regions. It’s thought that most trees are grown from discarded apple cores. It’s an important tree to protect as it offers valuable resources to wildlife and humans alike. Here are Hillier, we have Malus sylvestris available as a semi-mature tree, in a variety of container sizes.