Laura Crabapple Malus 'Laura'
ABOUT
Malus 'Laura' is known commonly as the flowering crabapple. This deciduous tree is admired for its visually striking springtime show, when it blossoms with vibrant, deep pink flowers that are both substantial in size and rich in color. As the name suggests, these are not the edible apples one might find in a grocery store, but instead smaller ornamental fruits which add to the plant's decorative appeal. The leaves of the crabapple emerge a purple shade in the spring and transition to a glossy, dark green as they mature. In autumn, the leaves often change again, this time to a delightful color display of yellow and orange, which adds to the plant's seasonal interest. With a naturally upright and sometimes rounded crown, Malus 'Laura' provides a compact form which is densely covered in foliage. This dense coverage of leaves creates an attractive canopy that can be appreciated throughout the growing season. Additionally, its distinctively colored bark gives it winter interest even after the leaves have fallen. The plant also has a structured branching pattern, which adds texture and form to the landscape. This, combined with its floral and foliage characteristics, makes Malus 'Laura' a popular choice for adding aesthetic value to gardens and parks.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Laura Apple
Common names
Malus 'Laura'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Malus 'Laura' is commonly known as the ornamental crabapple. Crabapple trees are not considered toxic to humans and their fruit is edible, though it may be tart and astringent, especially when raw. However, consuming the seeds in large quantities should be avoided because they contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when digested. Accidental ingestion of a few seeds is not likely to cause harm due to the low concentration of amygdalin, but intentionally eating large amounts could potentially lead to symptoms of cyanide poisoning, which include headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, and in severe cases, respiratory failure and death.
To pets
The ornamental crabapple is not generally toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. The fruit can be eaten in moderation, but as with humans, the seeds should be avoided. The seeds contain amygdalin, which can be converted to cyanide during digestion. While a pet is unlikely to consume enough seeds to cause cyanide poisoning, ingestion of large amounts of seeds could potentially lead to the same symptoms of cyanide poisoning as in humans, including panting, difficulty breathing, and an increased heart rate, which could be fatal in severe cases. It's advisable to prevent pets from access to large quantities of crabapple seeds.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters)
Spread
10 feet (3 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Beauty - Malus 'Laura' boasts stunning deep pink blossoms that enhance any landscape with their visual appeal.
- Spring Interest - It produces spectacular spring blooms that are a signal of the changing season, adding to the seasonal interest in a garden.
- Wildlife Attraction - The tree's flowers provide nectar for pollinators, while the small fruits that follow can attract birds and other wildlife.
- Size - Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller gardens or for growing in a container on a patio or balcony.
- Drought Resistance - Once established, it can withstand periods of drought, reducing the need for constant watering.
- Low Maintenance - This cultivar typically requires minimal pruning and care, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options.
- Edible Fruit - Although the fruits are small and sometimes sharp, they can be used to make jellies or preserves.
- Shade and Shelter - It provides shade and shelter in a garden setting, which can be beneficial for relaxation areas or for protecting other plants.
- Hardy - Malus 'Laura' is generally hardy and can withstand a variety of weather conditions once acclimated.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Backdrops: The beautiful flowers of the crabapple provide a stunning background for springtime photography sessions.
- Beekeeping Attraction: Crabapple trees are excellent at attracting bees for pollination, offering an abundant source of nectar in the spring.
- Culinary Garnish: The blossoms of the crabapple can be used to garnish dishes and desserts for an elegant touch.
- Homemade Potpourri: Dried crabapple blossoms can be added to potpourri mixes for a natural and pleasant scent.
- Natural Bird Habitat: Crabapple trees provide shelter and nesting sites for various bird species, fostering biodiversity in gardens.
- Fruit Leather: The small fruits of crabapple trees can be used to make tart, homemade fruit leather snacks.
- Decorative Branches: Pruned branches from crabapple trees can be arranged in vases for rustic indoor decorations.
- Educational Tool: Crabapple trees can be used in educational settings to teach students about plant growth and fruit development.
- Dye Production: The fruit of crabapple trees can produce natural dyes for fabrics or crafts.
- Wood Carving: The hard wood of the crabapple tree can be used by woodcarvers to create intricate designs and sculptures.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Crabapple is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Crabapple is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: The Malus 'Laura', commonly known as the Crabapple, often symbolizes beauty due to its attractive blossoms and elegant appearance.
- Love: As with many flowering trees, the Crabapple can be a representation of love, possibly because of its charming flowers that can inspire affectionate feelings.
- New Beginnings: The Crabapple's blossoms in springtime are often associated with renewal and the start of new phases, mirroring the cycle of life.
- Peace: In some cultures, Crabapple trees are seen as emblems of peace and tranquility, offering a serene presence in any landscape.
- Healing: Historically, parts of the Crabapple tree, such as its fruit, have been used for medicinal purposes, leading to its association with healing and health.
WaterThe Laura apple tree should be watered deeply once a week during its growing season, particularly if there hasn't been substantial rain. During the hot summer months, it may require watering twice a week, ensuring that the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water should be applied slowly at the base of the tree to avoid runoff and allow for deep soil penetration. An established tree typically requires about 1 to 2 gallons of water each time, depending on the tree size and weather conditions.
LightThe Laura apple tree thrives in full sunlight, which means it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. The best spot for planting is an open area away from taller structures or trees that would cast shade on it. Even though it can tolerate some partial shade, fruit production is maximized in full sun.
TemperatureThe Laura apple tree can handle cold winter temperatures and requires a period of dormancy with temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit to properly set fruit. It is adaptable to a range of climate conditions but generally prefers a temperature range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. The tree can withstand winter lows down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant.
PruningPruning the Laura apple tree is important for promoting healthy growth, shaping the tree, and encouraging fruit production. It should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring before the new growth starts. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossed branches to improve air circulation and sunlight exposure throughout the tree. The best time for pruning is when the tree is still dormant.
CleaningNot needed
SoilLaura apple trees thrive in well-draining loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. For optimal growth, incorporate organic compost and peat moss into the native soil to improve fertility and moisture retention.
RepottingLaura apple trees, being larger fruit trees, are not typically repotted but rather planted in a permanent location. They should be transplanted to the garden when they have outgrown their nursery container.
Humidity & MistingLaura apple trees are adaptable but prefer average humidity levels consistent with outdoor conditions; they do not have specific humidity requirements.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suitable for indoor growing; requires outdoor conditions.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Malus 'Laura', commonly known as 'Laura' crabapple, starts its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring when the temperatures rise and sufficient moisture is present. The seedling emerges and develops into a young sapling, forming a small trunk and branches. Throughout the spring and early summer, it undergoes vegetative growth, producing leaves that enable photosynthesis to support its growth. By the third or fourth year, the 'Laura' crabapple reaches maturity and begins its reproductive phase, marked by the blossoming of pink to red flowers that attract pollinators for fertilization. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small, ornamental red fruit in the late summer or early fall, which may be spread by wildlife, thus completing the cycle. In winter, the plant enters a dormant stage, with minimal physiological activity and dropped leaves, conserving energy until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Malus 'Laura', commonly known as Laura Apple, is best propagated during its dormancy in winter to early spring before new growth begins. The most popular method for propagating this variety of apple tree is through grafting. This involves taking a cutting of a Laura Apple, typically called a scion, with at least two to three buds, and joining it onto a vigorous rootstock of another apple variety that is known for its strong root system. The scion should be approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, and the cut on both the scion and the rootstock should be done at a complementary angle to ensure a good match. After fitting the scion onto the rootstock, the graft union is secured using grafting tape or a similar material to hold the pieces firmly together until the graft has taken, which can usually be observed by the growth of new shoots.
