Malus 'Radiant'

Radiant Crabapple

Malus ‘Radiant’ is a deciduous flowering crabapple tree with red buds that open to deep rosy-pink spring flowers, reddish-purple new foliage that matures bronze-green to green, and small bright red fruit that often persists into winter. It has a rounded crown and is an older University of Minnesota introduction valued for cold hardiness and strong flower display.

Type: Deciduous flowering tree
Mature Size: 20–30' W x 20–30' H
USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Rounded, broad crown
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Well-drained soil; moderate water
Bloom Time / Length: Spring, usually April to mid-spring
Wildlife: Pollinators, birds

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen tree, lawn tree, or accent tree where strong spring bloom and persistent fruit are wanted. It performs especially well in colder climates, but multiple arboretum and nursery references note that scab resistance is weak compared with newer crabapple cultivars.

Care: Plant in full sun with good air circulation and well-drained soil. Water regularly while establishing, then during dry spells as needed. Because scab resistance is commonly rated poor, it is best sited where foliage can dry quickly and where disease pressure is not severe. 

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-30'

Width

20-30'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

Pink, Rose

Leaf color

Green

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No