tree

Siberian crab apple

Malus baccata

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Siberian crab apple (Malus baccata) — a tree, for Full sun, Medium water. Companions: Apple.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermoderate

↑ Gives back

Fruitsmall, tart apples
Mulch_biomassmedium to high

Companions

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
floweringFlowers typically emerge two weeks after the last spring frost, once air temperatures consistently reach 10°C.
fruitingFruit development begins after flowering, maturing over approximately 90 days.
harvestFruits are typically ready for harvest in September.
senescenceLeaves begin to senesce and drop with the first autumn frost.
dormancyThe tree enters dormancy shortly after the first autumn frost and remains dormant through winter.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatespotassium, calcium
Soil textureloam, sandy_loam, clay_loam
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodsseed, grafting, cuttings
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~3 yr
Stratificationrequires cold stratification for 60-90 days
Self-seedingLight
Divisionnot applicable

Wildlife & pests

Attractspollinators, birds, wildlife
Can host pestsaphids, codling_moth, apple_scab
Can host diseasesfire_blight, cedar_apple_rust