European crab apple

Malus sylvestris

Layer 2 · Understorey
Edible companion

Status by region

No restrictions recorded in the lists we checked.

Checked against the European Union list (Regulation 1143/2014) · Portugal's national invasive species list (Decreto-Lei 92/2019).

Information based on the cited sources, not legal advice — always confirm your local rules.

About

The crab apple is a small, thorny tree native to Europe, considered one of the ancestors of the cultivated apple. It produces small, sour apples useful for preserves, cider and wildlife. In agroforestry systems, it forms part of the lower canopy layer, with abundant melliferous flowering in spring and value as a genetic reservoir.

It is harvested now — September is one of the harvest months.

See which trees European crab apple grows well with

We have no trees recorded with this species yet. Start from the tree on your land.

See the central trees

No account needed.

Needs

Water: Medium
Light: Full sun
Size: Small tree up to 8 m
Mature diameter: 6 m
Soils: Clay, Loam, Sandy, Limestone
Climates: Hot, dry Mediterranean, Atlantic coast, Inland / Continental

Calendar

January — Planting
February — Planting
March
April
May
June
July
August
September — Harvest
October — Harvest
November — Planting
December — Planting

Harvest
Planting

Medicinal use: Its small, sour fruits are rich in pectin and frequently used in making jellies, preserves and cider.

Where to buy

May grow well with

Suggestions worked out from growing conditions — same soil and climate, complementary layers and functions. These are not observed guilds; treat them as a starting point to try on your own land.