Malus sylvestris, commonly known as European Crab Apple, is a deciduous tree that is native to Europe and Western Asia, and thrives in habitats including hedgerows, woodland edges, and traditional orchards. It typically grows to a height of 15-25 feet (4.5-7.6 meters) and has a broad, often irregular crown. The European Crab Apple is valued for its spring display of fragrant white or pinkish flowers, which bloom in late April to May, and its small, yellow-green to red apples, approximately 1 inch in diameter, that mature in the fall. The fruits are sour but edible and are commonly used in jellies, jams, and ciders.

The European Crab Apple is appreciated for its ornamental qualities, including its attractive blossoms and fruit, which provide visual interest and support biodiversity by attracting pollinators and providing food for birds and mammals. It is often used in mixed wildlife hedges or as a genetic resource in apple breeding programs. This tree prefers well-drained, loamy soils but is adaptable to a range of soil types. It requires full sun to part shade and moderate watering. While generally robust, it can be susceptible to apple scab and other common apple diseases. It is not typically invasive but can hybridize with domestic apple varieties, potentially affecting the genetics of wild populations.CC BY-SA 4.0