Van Eseltine Crabapple Malus 'Van Eseltine'
ABOUT
The Malus 'Van Eseltine' is generally known as a flowering crabapple. This eye-catching plant is admired for its showy appearance, characterized by an abundant display of aromatic blossoms. During its flowering season, which typically takes place in spring, the tree is covered with large, double flowers that can vary in color from pale pink to a more vibrant rosy pink. These blossoms create a stunning floral canopy that is not only visually appealing but also emits a fragrant scent, providing sensory allure to the surroundings. The leaves of the flowering crabapple are a deep green shade and have a glossy surface, which serves as a beautiful backdrop to the bright blooms. As the seasons progress, the flowers give way to small fruit, which may range from red to yellow in color. These crabapples are often attractive to various birds and wildlife, adding yet another dimension of interest to the plant. As the foliage of the Malus 'Van Eseltine' transitions through the seasons, it may showcase a range of autumnal colors, providing a display of oranges and yellows before the leaves fall off for the winter. The plant is appreciated for this seasonal color change, bringing a dynamic aspect to its overall presence in the landscape. Overall, the appearance of the Malus 'Van Eseltine', with its stunning floral display, attractive foliage, and seasonal transformations, makes it a desirable choice for those looking to enhance their garden or outdoor space with ornamental beauty.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Van Eseltine Crabapple, Van Eseltine Apple.
Common names
Malus 'Van Eseltine'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Malus 'Van Eseltine', commonly known as apple tree, typically is not considered toxic to humans when consuming the fruits. However, the seeds inside the apple, if crushed and ingested in large quantities, contain amygdalin which breaks down into hydrogen cyanide, a potentially toxic compound. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning can include headache, confusion, dizziness, labored breathing, convulsions, and can be fatal in extreme cases. It is important to avoid eating the seeds in large amounts.
To pets
Like humans, pets can eat the fruit of an apple tree without significant risk. However, the seeds can also be harmful to pets if consumed in large quantities. As with humans, the seeds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized. The symptoms of cyanide poisoning in pets are similar to those in humans and can include panting, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, and shock. In severe cases, ingestion can be fatal. Pets should not be allowed to eat large amounts of apple seeds.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
12-15 feet (3.7-4.6 meters)
Spread
12-15 feet (3.7-4.6 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The plant Malus 'Van Eseltine', commonly called the 'Crabapple', has showy flowers and fruits that add ornamental value to landscapes.
- Wildlife Attraction: Crabapples provide nectar for pollinators as well as food for birds and other wildlife through their fruit.
- Shade and Cooling: As a tree, the Crabapple can provide shade, which can reduce cooling costs and create a comfortable outdoor area.
- Seasonal Interest: With its spring blossoms and fall fruit, the Crabapple offers visual interest throughout multiple seasons.
- Privacy: When planted in groups, the Crabapple can serve as a privacy screen or windbreak.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The Crabapple tree can provide a picturesque backdrop or focal point for outdoor photography, particularly when it’s in full bloom.
- Natural Dye: The bark and fruit of the Crabapple can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, giving them a gentle, earthy tone.
- Wildlife Shelter: The dense branches of the Crabapple can offer shelter and nesting sites for birds and other small wildlife.
- Woodworking: The wood of the Crabapple tree can be used for crafting small woodworking projects like handles, carvings, or inlays.
- Bonsai: Due to its attractive flowers and fruit, the Crabapple tree can be cultivated as a bonsai for ornamental purposes.
- Winter Garden Interest: Even without leaves, the Crabapple’s intricate branch pattern and persistent fruits can add visual interest to a winter garden.
- Edible Crafts: The fruit can be used to make edible decorations, such as crabapple jelly or candied crabapples, for festive occasions.
- Fruit Vinegar: Crabapples can be fermented to make a tangy fruit vinegar, used in salad dressings and marinades.
- Pectin Source: The high pectin content in crabapples makes them ideal for use in setting jams and jellies made from other, less pectin-rich fruits.
- Natural Insect Repellent: Crabapple leaves can sometimes be used as a natural insect repellent when crushed and applied to the skin.
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 & Perfection: Malus 'Van Eseltine', commonly known as the flowering crabapple, often symbolizes beauty and perfection due to its delightful blooms that adorn the trees in springtime.
- Love & Affection: The crabapple's pretty flowers can represent love and affection, making it an emblem of heartfelt emotions.
- Renewal & New Beginnings: As flowering crabapples herald the spring, they can signify renewal and new beginnings, much like many other plants that bloom after winter.
- Protection: Historically, crabapple trees were thought to ward off evil spirits, and thus they symbolize protection.
WaterThe Crabapple tree should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season if there has been no significant rainfall. When watering, slowly apply 10 to 15 gallons per inch of trunk diameter near the base of the tree, allowing moisture to reach deep into the root system. During the dormant season, water every two to three weeks, depending on weather conditions. Adjust the frequency if there are periods of heavy rain or drought. Always ensure the soil around the Crabapple tree is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
LightThe Crabapple tree thrives in full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering. Avoid excessively shaded areas, as this can reduce flowering and make the tree more susceptible to diseases.
TemperatureThe Crabapple tree is hardy and adapts well to a range of temperatures, typically surviving winter colds down to -20°F and tolerating summer highs up to 100°F. Ideally, the Crabapple prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It's essential to avoid planting in locations with frequent temperature fluctuations that are extreme, as this can stress the tree.
PruningPruning the Crabapple tree is essential to maintain its shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and improve air circulation. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Thin out crowded branches and cut back any suckers or water sprouts. Pruning should be done annually, focusing on maintaining the tree's natural form and removing only what is necessary.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe apple 'Van Eseltine' thrives best in a well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil mix should ideally consist of equal parts garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite to ensure proper drainage and fertility. This apple variety prefers a soil pH of around 6.0 to 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingApple 'Van Eseltine' trees, like most apple cultivars, are typically grown outdoors and do not require frequent repotting. Instead, they may be planted in a permanent location where they can develop a strong root system. On the occasion that they are grown in containers, repotting might be necessary every 3 to 5 years, or when the tree becomes root-bound.
Humidity & MistingThe apple 'Van Eseltine' does well in average outdoor humidity levels where normal apple trees flourish. This tree is adaptable and does not require any special humidity adjustments, being suitable for the humidity levels typically found in temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Choose a large pot, bright spot, no direct heat sources.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, space adequately.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleMalus 'Van Eseltine', more commonly known as the 'Van Eseltine' apple cultivar, begins its life as a seed, though commercial propagation is typically through grafting onto rootstocks. After germination or grafting, it enters a juvenile phase where the seedling or young tree grows but does not produce fruit. This phase can last several years, during which the tree develops a sturdy root system and a strong trunk and branches. As it matures, it enters the flowering stage, typically in spring, producing blossoms that, if pollinated, will develop into fruit. The tree then sets fruit, which ripens over the summer and is typically harvested in late summer to fall. Once mature, the 'Van Eseltine' apple tree can continue producing fruit for several decades, entering a period of decline naturally as it ages.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The Malus 'Van Eseltine', commonly known as the Van Eseltine crabapple, is often propagated by grafting, which is the most popular method for this ornamental tree. Grafting should ideally be done in late winter to early spring, just before the tree comes out of dormancy and the sap begins to flow. The process involves taking a piece of a stem with leaf buds, known as a scion, from the Van Eseltine crabapple and attaching it to the rootstock of another apple variety that has desirable root traits. The cut surfaces of both the scion and the rootstock are placed together and bound tightly to encourage the tissues to fuse as the plant heals. Providing the proper care and environment—such as maintaining moisture around the graft union and keeping the site free from disease—is essential for successful graft development and the ultimate growth of a new Van Eseltine crabapple tree.
