Purple Prince Crabapple

Purple Prince Crabapple (Malus 'Purple Prince')

Purple Prince Crabapple (Malus 'Purple Prince') is a richly colored ornamental tree prized for its vivid magenta-pink flowers, deep purple foliage, and excellent disease resistance. With a symmetrical, rounded canopy and fast growth rate, this cultivar adds bold color and reliable performance to residential and commercial landscapes alike. It provides year-round visual interest while supporting pollinators and songbirds.

Distinctive Features

'Purple Prince' makes a strong impression each spring with its profusion of vibrant pink to magenta blooms. The leaves emerge as deep purple, gradually transitioning to bronze-green through the growing season. Small, dark reddish-purple fruit develops in summer and persists into late fall, attracting birds without creating significant mess. The tree typically matures to 20 feet tall and wide, maintaining a uniform, rounded shape without requiring heavy pruning.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during establishment
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bright flowers and dark foliage provide multi-season interest
• Urban Landscapes: Compact, symmetrical form suits smaller spaces and street plantings
• Wildlife Gardens: Flowers attract pollinators and fruit supports birds
• Foundation Plantings: Stands out against buildings and evergreen backdrops
• Mixed Borders: Contrasts beautifully with lighter green or silver-leaved plants

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain regular moisture during the first year; drought tolerant when mature
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to remove crossing branches and maintain shape
• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed
• Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Disease Resistance: Highly resistant to apple scab, fire blight, cedar-apple rust, and mildew

Why Choose Purple Prince Crabapple?

• Bold Spring Color: Bright magenta flowers and dark purple leaves create a dramatic statement
• Fast Growth: Establishes quickly and fills space with a rounded, balanced form
• Fruit for Wildlife: Persistent fruit adds fall interest and supports native birds
• Disease Resistant: Reliable health without routine spraying
• Focal Point: A colorful, compact tree ideal for residential gardens and streetscapes

Malus 'Purple Prince' delivers vibrant color and dependable structure in a fast-growing, disease-resistant form. Its striking foliage and spring flowers make it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to enhance curb appeal and seasonal interest.