Malus zumi

Zumi Crabapple

Malus zumi
Often sold in the nursery trade as Malus × zumi or, more specifically, Malus × zumi var. calocarpa (redbud crabapple), this ornamental crabapple is a small deciduous tree with pink to red buds that open to fragrant white spring flowers, followed by abundant small bright red fruit that often persists well into late fall or early winter. It typically develops a dense, rounded to spreading crown with rich green foliage and is valued for heavy bloom, showy fruit, and bird appeal.

Type: Ornamental tree
Mature Size: 12–20' wide x 12–20' high
USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Dense, rounded to spreading
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Medium moisture, well-drained soil; moderate water, with some drought tolerance once established
Bloom Time / Length: Spring; short but profuse bloom
Wildlife: Bees, birds

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen, lawn tree, or accent where heavy white bloom and persistent small red fruit are desired. The fruit is attractive to birds, and the tree is widely used for multi-season ornamental interest. Because the name Malus zumi is used somewhat loosely in horticulture, plants sold under that name are often the red-fruited selection var. calocarpa rather than the broader hybrid group.

Care: Plant in full sun for best flowering and fruiting. Grow in well-drained soil with good air circulation. Prune as needed in late winter, and avoid spring pruning when possible because fresh cuts can increase fire blight risk. Established trees tolerate a range of soils and some dry periods.

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

12-20'

Width

12-20'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Fruit color

Red

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Dense, Globe Shaped, Rounded, Spreading

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No