Malus hupehensis

Tea Crabapple

Malus hupehensis is a flowering crabapple tree valued for its fragrant pink buds that open white to very pale pink, its graceful vase-shaped to arching habit, and its small yellow to red fruit that adds fall interest. It is native to China and is often grown as an ornamental small tree or large shrub with a light, picturesque canopy.

Type: Flowering crabapple tree
Mature Size: 20–25' wide x 20–25' high
USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Broad vase-shaped, arching
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Well-drained soil / moderate moisture
Bloom Time / Length: Spring / 1–2 weeks
Wildlife: Bees visit the flowers; fruit is useful to birds and other wildlife.

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen, informal accent, or flowering tree for larger beds and lawns. The flowers are lightly fragrant, and the small crabapples can range from yellow-green to red depending on selection and season. It is also noted for tolerating wind and for casting only light shade.

Care: Plant in full sun with good air circulation for best flowering and fruiting. Water regularly during establishment, then during dry periods as needed. Prune in late winter to remove crowded, damaged, or crossing branches and to maintain the tree’s natural framework. It is generally considered not highly susceptible to disease, though performance can vary by site and clone.

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-25'

Width

20-25'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees, Birds

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Corner Accent, Specimen

Shape

Arching, Broad Upright, Vase Shaped

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No