Malus baccata Chinese crab (Rosaceae) Deciduous tree

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Malus baccata
Chinese crab
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Malus baccata plant species is found in E. Asia - N. China to the Himalayas. It is a member of the Rosaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Chinese crab. Some home gardeners know the variety as Pyrus baccata.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Malus baccata
Common Name:  Chinese crab
Family:  Rosaceae
Author:  (L.)Borkh.

Known Hazards:  All members of this genus contain the toxin hydrogen cyanide in their seeds and possibly also in their leaves, but not in their fruits. Hydrogen cyanide is the substance that gives almonds their characteristic taste but it should only be consumed in very small quantities. Apple seeds do not normally contain very high quantities of hydrogen cyanide but, even so, should not be consumed in very large quantities. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Mature Height:  15   Mature Width:  15

Habitat:  Forests to 3600 metres[51].

Cultivation Notes: An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most fertile soils including heavy ones[1, 98], preferring a moisture retentive well-drained loamy soil[200]. Prefers a sunny position but succeeds in partial shade though it fruits less well in such a situation[200]. A very hardy plant, tolerating temperatures down to about -40°c[160]. The plants are very resistant to disease[34]. This species is cultivated for its edible fruit in China, there are several named varieties[22]. The sub-species M. baccata mandschurica. (Maxim.)Schneid. has slightly larger fruits which ripen earlier than the type[1, 200]. The following cultivars in Britain also have larger fruits:- 'Macrocarpa' to 3cm. 'Orange' to 4cm. 'Red River' to 5cm[200]. Trees can produce fruit in 4 years from seed[160]. A very ornamental tree[1], the fruit is a good wildlife food source, especially for birds[200]. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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