PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes optimal flowering and fruiting
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Temperature
Cold-hardy to -30°C; tolerates summer temperatures up to 35°C with consistent moisture
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small oval to rounded glossy dark green leaves that turn orange-red in fall
- Flower: Fragrant clusters of white to pale pink 5-petaled blooms
- Fruit: Tiny bright red 0.5–1 cm diameter crabapples persisting through winter
- Stem: Slender arching branches forming a dense rounded crown
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth periods
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the tree base in early spring and work lightly into topsoilPruning
- Prune in late winter to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches
- Thin dense growth to improve air circulation and light penetration
- Trim back overgrown branches to preserve the tree's rounded spreading form
- Remove suckers at the base to maintain a clean tree structure
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains cyanogenic glycosides that may cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and respiratory distress
Humans: Mild gastrointestinal upset if large quantities of leaves or fruit are ingested; rare cyanide-like symptoms in extreme cases
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes spring renewal and seasonal beauty in ornamental landscaping
Usage: Ornamental landscape tree; attracts pollinators; provides winter food for birds
