Malus rockii, commonly referred to as Rock’s Crabapple, is a deciduous tree native to the temperate zone of China and Bhutan, often found in mixed forest margins, thickets, and along riverbanks. It typically grows to a height of 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters) with a similar spread. Rock’s Crabapple is characterized by its attractive form, with a rounded crown and spreading branches. It produces showy pink to white flowers in the spring, followed by small, yellow-green fruits that may persist into winter. The bark is smooth and gray, adding to its ornamental value.

Rock’s Crabapple is valued for its springtime floral display and its ability to attract pollinators. It is used in cultivation for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks, often as a specimen tree or in mixed borders. This species prefers well-drained, loamy soils and full sun to part shade conditions. It is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to common crabapple diseases such as apple scab and fire blight. Gardeners should be aware of these potential issues and select disease-resistant cultivars if available. Despite these concerns, Rock’s Crabapple remains a popular choice for its beauty and the ecological benefits it provides, such as serving as a food source for birds and other wildlife.CC BY-SA 4.0