Malus hupehensis AGM (syn. M. theifera)
You know that spring has really arrived when this lovely tree clothes itself in white blossom from top to bottom, but, at this time of the year, it is cloaked in small cherry-red fruits. There are several of these trees throughout the Rosemoor estate, but perhaps the most eyecatching are the three that grow quite close together just inside the Stream Field, to the left of the main track.
Vital statistics
- Common name
- Hupeh crab apple
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Height & spread
- 12m (40ft) x 12m (40ft)
- Form
- Deciduous tree
- Soil
- Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- Full sun preferred, but partial shade tolerated
- Hardiness
- Fully hardy
Malus
This genus contains about 35 species of deciduous trees and shrubs, found in woodlands and thickets throughout northern temperate regions.
They are easily grown, small- to medium-sized trees flowering from April to May. They produce fragrant flowers 2-5cm (1-2in) across, usually shallowly cup-shaped, singly or in umbel-like corymbs. The flowers are followed by edible fruits, although some need cooking to be palatable.
The fruit flavour improves considerably if the fruit is not harvested until it has been frosted. The fruit is quite variable in size (it is about 2-4cm in diameter) and quality. While usually harsh and acidic, some cultivars are quite sweet and can be eaten raw.
The fruit is rich in pectin and can be used in helping other fruits to set when making jam. Pectin is also said to protect the body against radiation.
The name Malus is from the Greek melon, and has in the past been applied to several tree fruits with a fleshy exterior.
Malus hupehensis AGM (syn. M. theifera)
This species is a vigorous, spreading crab apple tree from China and Japan. Ernest Wilson introduced it to the UK in 1900.
The name huphensis means 'of Hupeh', a province in China.
It has stiff, ascending branches, dark green, elliptic to ovate leaves up to 10cm (4in) long and fragrant, white flowers which are produced from pink buds, in great abundance in mid- and late-spring. These are followed by cherry-like, small, usually red, fruit, 1cm (0.4in) in diameter.
The origin of its synonym M. theifera refers to the use of the leaves by the peasants of Central China who prepare a drink from them which they call 'red tea'.
Cultivation
- Grow in moderately fertile moist but well-drained soil in full sun, although partial shade is tolerated.
- Minimal pruning is needed in late winter or early spring, when the tree is dormant. Remove damaged, wayward or crossing shoots.
- Aphids, red spider mites, caterpillars, apple scab, honey fungus, canker, fireblight and mildew may cause problems.
Propagation
- Sow seed in a seedbed in autumn. M. hupehensis usually comes true from seed, though in general Malus species often hybridise.
- Bud in late summer.
- Graft in midwinter.
AGM
The RHS Woody Plant Committee awarded Malus hupehensis an Award of Garden Merit and described it as:
"Vigorous medium-sized deciduous tree with a broad crown of dark, ovate leaves. Buds pink, opening to single white, fragrant flowers 3cm wide. Fruits globose, 10mm wide, yellow tinged with red."