Tree Shape

• In general, most crabapples are upright, small trees, 15 to 25 feet tall. They share the low and twisted branching pattern of all apple trees. But varieties have been bred that are taller, shorter, more mound-shaped, more vase-shaped, columnar, weeping and even "semi-weeping." Some dwarf varieties are only 6 to 8 feet tall.
  When choosing a crabapple tree for your home landscape, make sure the mature tree will fit, both in height and spread, in the space you have in mind. You do not want to have to prune a tree every year just to keep it in bounds; this is more work for you and ultimately unhealthy for the tree.
  Beyond size, choose a shape that will look beautiful in your space. A small weeping tree might serve as the centerpiece of a small courtyard, for example, while a larger, wide-spreading tree with a bench underneath it might make a perfect small garden all by itself.
  
  

Flower and Leaf Color

• Most crabapples have pink to red buds that open to white flowers. The flowers are often wonderfully fragrant. Varieties have been bred with flowers in all shades of pink, from pale to rose and even red, so you can choose a color that complements the other spring flowers in your yard.
  Crabapple leaves also come in a range of shades from light to dark green, some with tints of purple or red.
  
  

Fruit

• The only difference between a crabapple and an apple is the size of the fruit. Crabapples are 2 inches in diameter or less; anything larger than 2 inches is classified as an apple. Because crabapples have been bred for appearance rather than taste, their fruits range in flavor from harsh and unpalatable to sweeter and edible, although most types make a good jelly. Fruits vary from the size of a large pea or a cherry to fruits that are clearly small apples. The smaller sizes can be eaten by birds; the larger ones are too large to fit down a bird's throat.
  Fruit colors range from green through yellow and orange to red. In some varieties they remain on the tree through the winter and stand out brilliantly against the tree's bare branches.
  
  

Disease Resistance

• Crabapples are unfortunately susceptible to several diseases, including scab, cedar apple rust and fireblight, which vary in seriousness in different parts of the country. Before you buy a tree, find out which diseases it might be exposed to in your area and try to choose a variety that is resistant to them. Varieties vary enormously in which diseases they are resistant to and the strength of their resistance.
  
  

Care

• Crabapples should be planted in full sun for best flowering and fruiting. They are adaptable to varying soils, but prefer well-drained, moist and acidic conditions. They generally require little pruning, but if any is needed, it should be completed in spring; if done later, it will reduce next year's flowers and fruits.