Redbud Crabapple

Redbud Crabapple (Malus x 'Zumi Calocarpa')

Redbud Crabapple (Malus x 'Zumi Calocarpa') is a graceful ornamental tree admired for its abundant spring flowers, bright red fruit, and flowing silhouette. Known for its arching branches and multi-season appeal, this tree brings vibrant life to any landscape with fragrant white blooms in spring and colorful fruit that lasts through winter. Its refined structure and wildlife-friendly features make it a standout in larger gardens and naturalistic settings.

Distinctive Features

Redbud Crabapple forms a broad, spreading crown with gently weeping branches that give the tree a soft, elegant look. In mid-spring, pink buds open to reveal masses of fragrant white flowers that blanket the canopy. Glossy red fruit follows, ripening in late summer and holding on through winter, offering food for birds and visual interest during the colder months. Foliage is a medium green that turns golden-yellow in fall, adding one more layer of seasonal beauty.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; adapts to clay and sandy types
• Water: Moderate; water consistently during establishment
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Weeping form, spring flowers, and winter fruit make it a commanding specimen tree
• Wildlife Gardens: Flowers support pollinators while fruit attracts birds
• Open Lawns: Provides broad visual appeal when planted alone
• Naturalistic Landscapes: Blends beautifully into woodland edges or informal garden designs
• Large Garden Spaces: Best used where its mature shape has room to shine

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Deep water during dry spells, especially in the first few years
• Pruning: Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove crossing branches
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced tree fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Maintain a mulch ring to retain moisture and protect roots
• Disease Resistance: Moderate; may require monitoring in areas with high humidity

Why Choose Redbud Crabapple?

• Graceful Silhouette: Broad canopy with arching branches adds movement and softness
• Fragrant Spring Blooms: White flowers emerge from pink buds for a striking display
• Persistent Red Fruit: Brightens the landscape and feeds birds in winter
• Year-Round Interest: Offers beauty in every season, from flowers to fall color to winter fruit
• Focal Point: An ornamental showpiece for large gardens, parks, and estate landscapes

Malus x 'Zumi Calocarpa', commonly known as Redbud Crabapple, brings refined structure and seasonal charm to any landscape. Whether used as a centerpiece or part of a naturalized border, this versatile tree delivers dependable beauty and habitat value year after year.