Malus Cardinal

Cardinal Crabapple

Malus ‘Cardinal’ is a deciduous flowering crabapple tree with vivid magenta-pink spring flowers, glossy purplish-red foliage that holds color well, and small deep red fruit that persists into winter. It has a broad-spreading to rounded habit and is especially valued for combining dark foliage with strong disease resistance.

Type: Deciduous flowering tree
Mature Size: 20–30' W x 18–20' H
USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Broad-spreading, rounded to flat-topped with age
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Well-drained soil; moderate water
Bloom Time / Length: Spring
Wildlife: Pollinators, birds

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen tree, lawn tree, or accent where strong flower color and dark foliage are wanted. It is also useful for extended seasonal interest because the fruit remains showy into winter, and it is often noted as one of the better purple-leaved crabapples for disease resistance.

Care: Plant in full sun with good air circulation and well-drained soil. Water regularly while establishing, then during dry spells as needed. Prune mainly to maintain structure and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

18-20'

Width

20-30'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

Pink, Red

Attracts

Birds

Soil

Moist well-drained

Shape

Spreading

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No