Cardinal Crabapple

Cardinal Crabapple (Malus 'Cardinal')

Cardinal Crabapple (Malus 'Cardinal') is a striking ornamental tree known for its deep purple foliage, vivid rose-red spring flowers, and showy red fruit. Also known as Cardinal Flowering Crabapple, this upright cultivar delivers intense color throughout the seasons and offers exceptional ornamental value as a specimen or accent tree. Its narrow habit and year-round interest make it an excellent choice for landscapes seeking bold foliage contrast and dependable bloom performance.

Distinctive Features

'Cardinal' opens the season with bright rose-red single flowers that cover the canopy in spring, drawing attention and pollinators alike. The blossoms are followed by rich, dark maroon to purple foliage that holds its color through the growing season, adding depth and contrast to green-dominated plantings. Small, glossy red fruits appear in late summer and often persist into winter. The tree grows in an upright, vase-shaped form, reaching 15 to 20 feet tall and 12 to 15 feet wide at maturity.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Adaptable to most well-drained soils; prefers loam or sandy soils
• Water: Moderate; water regularly during dry spells, especially in the first year
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Vivid foliage and flowers make this tree a standout specimen
• Urban Landscapes: Upright form fits well in city lots and narrow beds
• Mixed Borders: Adds height and contrast among lower perennials and shrubs
• Pollinator Gardens: Spring blooms support bees and other pollinators
• Bird Gardens: Fruits provide a food source in fall and winter

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain consistent moisture during the first year; drought tolerant once established
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove crossing branches
• Fertilizing: Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
• Mulching: Mulch around the root zone to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Disease Resistance: Moderate resistance to common crabapple diseases; monitor for fire blight and scab

Why Choose Cardinal Crabapple?

• Striking Foliage: Deep purple leaves hold their color through the season
• Brilliant Spring Color: Rose-red flowers add early-season impact
• Four-Season Appeal: Flowers, fruit, and foliage provide year-round beauty
• Wildlife Friendly: Supports pollinators and offers fruit for birds
• Focal Point: A dramatic ornamental tree ideal for standout landscape accents

Malus 'Cardinal' delivers bold, multi-season interest in a refined, upright form. Whether featured in a front yard planting or as part of a wildlife-friendly garden, Cardinal Crabapple adds long-lasting beauty and structure to any landscape design.