Malus sylvestris Crab apple (Rosaceae) Deciduous tree

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Malus sylvestris
Crab apple
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Malus sylvestris plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Rosaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Crab apple. Some home gardeners know the variety as M. acerba. M. communis sylvestris. Pyrus malus.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Malus sylvestris
Common Name:  Crab apple
Family:  Rosaceae
Author:  Mill.

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:  10   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Woods, scrub and hedges, especially in oak woods, on neutral to calcareous soils[9, 17, 200].

Cultivation Notes: An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most fertile soils, including heavy ones, preferring a moisture retentive well-drained loamy soil[1, 98, 200]. Prefers a sunny position but succeeds in partial shade though it fruits less well in such a situation[186, 200]. Fairly tolerant of cutting, it succeeds in a mixed hedgerow[186]. A parent of the cultivated apple[11], it is often used as a rootstock[50]. The fruit is a good wildlife food source, especially for birds[200]. The plant has over 90 associated insect species[24]. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus[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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