Pink Perfection Flowering Crabapple Malus 'R.j. Fulcher'
ABOUT
Malus 'R.J. Fulcher', commonly known as Crabapple, is a deciduous tree known for its attractive and distinctive appearance. This variety of Crabapple typically showcases lush green foliage that provides a verdant backdrop for its floral display. The leaves are oval-shaped with pointed tips and finely serrated edges, exuding a vibrant green in the spring and summer that may turn yellow or orange in autumn. One of the most charming features of the Crabapple tree is its springtime blossoms. These flowers are often a soft pink or white color that bloom prolifically, enveloping the tree in a cloud of delicate petals. The blossoms may have a slight fragrance that adds to the plant's allure. Following the flowering season, the Crabapple develops fruit that is typically small, about the size of a cherry, and can vary in color from red to yellow. The fruits are not only visually appealing but also provide food for birds and other wildlife. The overall appearance of the Crabapple is one of a well-structured tree with an appealing and balanced shape. Its branches create an attractive silhouette against the sky, and the interplay of leaves, blooms, and fruit presents a multi-staged display of natural beauty throughout the seasons. This makes the Crabapple a popular choice for ornamental garden plantings and landscape designs seeking year-round interest.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Robinson Crabapple, Fulcher Crabapple
Common names
Malus 'R.j. Fulcher'
ToxicityTo humans
The Malus 'R.j. Fulcher' plant is more commonly known as a type of Flowering Crabapple. Flowering Crabapples in general are not considered highly toxic to humans. However, the seeds, leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when chewed or digested. It is uncommon for humans to experience poisoning from these parts as they are not typically consumed. If large amounts of these parts are ingested, symptoms could include difficulty breathing, dizziness, headaches, stomach pain, nausea, and potentially more severe symptoms of cyanide poisoning such as seizures or coma. The risks are typically low from casual handling or eating the fruit flesh, but caution is advised to avoid consuming the seeds or other plant parts in significant quantities.
To pets
The Malus 'R.j. Fulcher' or Flowering Crabapple can also be toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. Similar to humans, the seeds, leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can convert to cyanide when chewed and ingested by pets. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, difficulty breathing, panting, dilated pupils, and shock. If a pet consumes a large quantity of these parts of the plant, more severe symptoms can develop such as seizures or coma, which can be life-threatening. Although the fruit flesh is typically not toxic, pet owners should prevent their animals from accessing and ingesting the seeds, stems, and leaves of Flowering Crabapples.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters)
Spread
12-15 feet (3.6-4.5 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Value: The Malus 'R.J. Fulcher', commonly known as flowering crabapple, has beautiful blossoms that enhance the visual appeal of any landscape in spring.
- Pollinator Attraction: Flowering crabapples attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, essential for the health of the ecosystem.
- Wildlife Benefits: The fruit of the flowering crabapple provides food for various birds and mammals, supporting local biodiversity.
- Shade and Shelter: As a deciduous tree, the flowering crabapple offers shade during the warmer months and shelter for birds and wildlife.
- Seasonal Interest: With spring flowers, summer greenery, fall fruit, and a sometimes striking winter branch structure, it offers year-round interest in the garden or landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crabapple trees like Malus 'R.J. Fulcher' can be used in woodworking, where the hard and dense wood may be fashioned into small decorative objects, tool handles, or unique pieces of furniture.
- The fruit of the crabapple can serve as a natural dye for fabrics or art projects, with the various shades of reds and yellows providing coloring potential.
- Crabapple fruit, when inedible to humans due to bitterness, can still be used as a feed supplement for livestock, especially pigs who often relish the tart fruit.
- In photography or painting, crabapple trees offer a picturesque bloom for artists and photographers looking for a vibrant subject in spring.
- Crabapple jelly or pectin, made from the fruits, can be a craft project for those interested in traditional preserving and canning methods.
- As a natural source of acid, crabapple juice can be used in mordanting – a process in dying wool and other fibers to fix the dyes.
- Crabapple branches and twigs are sometimes used in floral arrangements, particularly in the winter when the gnarled, twiggy forms add an interesting texture and shape.
- Bonsai enthusiasts may use Malus 'R.J. Fulcher' for creating miniature trees, taking advantage of the tree's aesthetic bloom and fruit.
- The fallen crabapples can be composted to create a nutrient-rich organic material that benefits garden soils.
- Crabapple blossoms are a source of food for pollinators like bees in the spring, aiding in the conservation of these essential insect species.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Crabapple tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Crabapple tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty: The Malus 'R.J. Fulcher', commonly known as 'Prairifire Flowering Crabapple', often symbolizes beauty due to its stunning pinkish-red flowers that blossom in spring.
- Love: The heart-shaped leaves and the pink flowers of the crabapple can represent love and affection.
- Renewal: As a species that blooms vibrantly after winter, crabapples signify the renewal and the coming of spring, representing new beginnings and hope.
- Peace: Crabapple trees are often planted in gardens and parks as a symbol of peace and tranquility; their presence is considered soothing.
WaterThe Malus 'R.j. Fulcher', commonly known as the Flowering Crabapple, requires consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Water the Crabapple tree deeply once a week, providing about 1.5 to 2 gallons per inch of trunk diameter each time you water. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water twice a week. Reduce watering to every two weeks in the fall before the tree goes dormant, and if you receive at least an inch of rainfall in a week, additional watering may not be necessary. Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
LightThe Flowering Crabapple thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day, which can be provided by planting the tree in a spot that is free from taller structures or trees that might create shade. The best spot for the Crabapple is in a clear area where it will receive sunlight throughout the day, helping to ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering.
TemperatureThe Flowering Crabapple is hardy and can withstand temperatures down to about -20°F, making it suitable for growth in many climates. However, it prefers a temperate range with ideal growing conditions between 60°F and 75°F. It is important to avoid planting it in locations where temperatures might exceed 90°F for prolonged periods, as extreme heat can stress the tree.
PruningPruning the Flowering Crabapple is necessary to maintain its shape, remove any dead or diseased wood, and to encourage better air circulation. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts but after the coldest weather has passed. Typically, Crabapple trees should be pruned every 2 to 3 years, depending on growth. Selective thinning out of the canopy rather than topping is recommended to preserve tree health and aesthetics.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Crabapple (Malus 'R.J. Fulcher') should be well-draining, loamy, and enriched with compost to provide nutrients. The ideal soil pH for crabapple trees generally ranges from 6.0 to 7.0. It is important to avoid heavy clay soils and overly sandy soils that do not retain moisture well.
RepottingCrabapple trees, including Malus 'R.J. Fulcher', do not typically require frequent repotting. Young trees may be repotted every 2-3 years to encourage growth, but mature trees are usually planted directly in the ground.
Humidity & MistingCrabapple trees (Malus 'R.J. Fulcher') are quite adaptable and do not require specific humidity levels. They perform well in the natural outdoor humidity in most temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Crabapple indoors with bright light, cool temps, and airflow.
Outdoor
Plant Crabapple in full sun, well-draining soil, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe Malus 'R.J. Fulcher', commonly known as the Flowering Crabapple, begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in the soil when conditions of moisture, temperature, and sunlight are suitable. After germination, the seedling develops roots and shoots, emerging from the soil as a sapling. The sapling stage involves rapid growth and the formation of a trunk and branches, during which time it requires ample water and nutrients. As it matures, the crabapple tree enters a period of flowering, typically in the spring, where it produces showy blossoms that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the tree sets fruit, which are small crabapples that can be used for culinary purposes or serve as food for wildlife. The life cycle continues as the fruits drop seeds to the ground, potentially giving rise to new trees, and eventually, the mature crabapple tree reaches the end of its life span, contributes to the ecosystem through decay, and completes the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Propogation: Malus 'R.J. Fulcher', commonly known as flowering crabapple, is often propagated by grafting, which is the most popular method. The ideal time for grafting is late winter to early spring when the plant is still dormant but the risk of severe frost has passed. In grafting, a scion, which is a young shoot or bud from the desired crabapple tree, is joined to a rootstock of another apple variety that offers disease resistance and hardy growth. The chosen scion should be about the diameter of a pencil (roughly 1/4 to 1/2 inch or about 6 to 12 millimeters) and have at least two to three buds. The cut on the scion and the cut on the rootstock should match as closely as possible to ensure a successful union. The graft should then be wrapped with grafting tape or sealed with grafting wax to prevent drying out and to promote healing, after which it's important to keep the new graft well-watered and protected from extreme elements.
