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].

Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[9, 15]. Used for jellies, preserves and juices[183]. The flavour improves considerably if the fruit is not harvested until it has been frosted[12]. The fruit is quite variable in size (it is about 2 - 4cm in diameter[200]) and quality. Whilst usually harsh and acid, some forms are quite sweet and can be eaten out of hand[K]. The fruit is rich in pectin and can be used in helping other fruits to set when making jam etc[61, 142]. Pectin is also said to protect the body against radiation[201]. An edible oil can be obtained from the seed[4]. It would only really be viable to use these seeds as an oil source if the fruit was being used for some purpose such as making cider and then the seeds could be extracted from the remaining pulp[K]. A very pleasant tea can be made from the leaves[7].

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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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