Almey Crabapple Malus × adstringens 'Almey'

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Almey Crabapple, Almey Flowering Crab, Almey Crab

• Common names

  Malus × adstringens 'Almey'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant referred to is more commonly known as the Almey crabapple. Generally, crabapples like the Almey variety are not toxic to humans. The fruits of crabapple trees can be eaten and are sometimes used in jellies or pies, though they might be very sour compared to regular apples. However, the seeds, leaves, and stems of crabapples contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. When ingested, the body can convert these compounds into cyanide. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning can include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, nausea, and in severe cases, may lead to respiratory failure or death. It is important to avoid consuming the seeds or any other parts of the plant in large amounts.

• To pets

  For pets, the Almey crabapple can also be a concern if they ingest parts of the plant containing cyanogenic glycosides, predominantly found in the seeds, leaves, and stems. If a pet ingests a significant amount of these parts, it could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning. Symptoms in pets might include drooling, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, panting, shock, and in severe cases, could be fatal. While the fruit's flesh may not be harmful, caution should be exercised to prevent pets from consuming plant parts that could contain these toxic substances.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  15-20 feet (4.6-6 meters)

• Spread

  15-20 feet (4.6-6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  4-8

• Native area

  North America

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Malus × adstringens 'Almey', commonly known as the Almey Crabapple, is highly regarded for its ornamental features, particularly its attractive flowers which bloom in the spring.
• Wildlife Support: The crabapple provides a food source for birds and other wildlife, particularly in the form of its fruit which persists into winter.
• Shade and Shelter: The tree offers shade and shelter in landscapes and gardens, making it a practical addition for comfort and aesthetic reasons.
• Pollination Support: It serves as a pollinator-friendly plant, attracting bees and other pollinators which are essential for the health of many ecosystems.
• Seasonal Interest: With its spring flowers, summer foliage, and sometimes colorful fall leaves or persistent fruits, it provides year-round interest in the garden.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Crabapple 'Almey' trees can be used as a natural dye source. The fruit can yield various hues depending on the mordant used.
• The wood from crabapple can be utilized in woodworking projects for crafting small decorative items, as it is hard and has a fine grain.
• Ink can be made from the tannins present in the bark and fruit of crabapples, traditionally used for writing and drawing.
• Crabapple trees provide habitat and nesting sites for various birds and small mammals, adding to biodiversity in gardens and orchards.
• The fruit of the crabapple can be used to make crabapple butter, a spread similar to apple butter, with a unique tart flavor.
• Crabapple fruit can be used for making fruit leathers, a type of dried fruit snack that is sweet, tart, and chewy.
• Dried crabapple slices can be used for potpourri or as natural air fresheners, due to their pleasant scent and decorative appearance.
• Crabapple branches can serve as rustic decorative elements for floral arrangements or holiday wreaths.
• The petals of crabapple blossoms are edible and can be used as a colorful, slightly tart garnish for salads and desserts.
• Crabapple fruit pulp can be added to homemade soaps for its properties as an exfoliant and for its natural fragrance.

Feng Shui

The Crabapple is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Crabapple is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Beauty: The 'Almey' Crabapple is known for its striking flowers and is often seen as a symbol of beauty, representing the aesthetic pleasure one finds in nature.
• Romance: With its springtime blooms, the Crabapple tree is commonly associated with love and romance, embodying the fleeting, yet passionate nature of early relationships.
• Rebirth and Renewal: The blossoming of Crabapple trees in spring makes them symbols of rebirth and renewal, representing new beginnings and the cycle of life.
• Peace: Crabapple trees are sometimes planted to represent peace, possibly due to their non-threatening size and the welcoming presence they offer in landscapes.
• Good Health: In some cultures, Crabapple fruit is seen as a symbol of good health and is associated with healing properties, likely because the fruit is rich in nutrients.