Malus prunifolia, commonly known as Plumleaf Crab Apple, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to the forest edges and hillsides of North and Central China. It typically grows to a height of 15-30 feet (5-9 meters) and a width of 10-20 feet (3-6.1 meters). The Plumleaf Crab Apple is notable for its attractive white flowers that bloom in spring, followed by small, yellow to red fruits that may persist into winter, providing visual interest and wildlife forage. The tree’s bark is gray and can become scaly with age, adding to its ornamental value.

This species is valued for its hardiness and adaptability to a range of soil conditions, from slow to fast drainage, making it suitable for various landscape uses including ornamental plantings and wildlife gardens. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate part shade. While it requires medium amounts of water, established trees are relatively drought-tolerant. Plumleaf Crab Apple is also used for its rootstock in apple breeding programs due to its disease resistance. Gardeners should be aware that, despite its beauty and utility, Malus prunifolia can become invasive outside its native range, and it is susceptible to common apple diseases such as fire blight and apple scab.CC BY-SA 4.0