Malus David

David Crabapple

Malus David is a deciduous flowering crabapple tree, usually listed botanically as Malus davidii, with white spring flowers, glossy green foliage, and small red to red-purple fruit that can persist into fall and winter. It has a rounded to spreading habit and is valued for its ornamental fruit and usefulness in breeding and species collections.

Type: Deciduous flowering tree
Mature Size: 15–25' W x 20–30' H
USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Rounded, spreading
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Well-drained soil; moderate water
Bloom Time / Length: Spring
Wildlife: Pollinators, birds

Features & Landscape Uses: Best used as a specimen tree, in arboretum or botanical collections, or in naturalistic plantings where species crabapples are appreciated. The small fruit adds seasonal interest, and the species is also notable for its value in crabapple and apple breeding.

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

20-30'

Width

15-25'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Late Spring, Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees, Birds

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Provide Shade, Specimen

Shape

Rounded, Spreading

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No