Prairie crabapple was once commonly found throughout the Midwest prairies and savannas. Spectacular in bloom, deep pink flower buds open to white flowers. Their fruit is popular with a myriad of wildlife. Unfortunately, prairie crabapple is susceptible to many foliar diseases.
This species is native to the Chicago Region according to Wilhelm and Rericha’s Flora of the Chicago Region.
- Family (English) Rose
- Family (botanic) Rosaceae
- Planting site Residential and parks, Under utility lines
- Tree or plant type Tree
- Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
- Native locale Chicago area, Illinois, North America
- Size range Small tree (15-25 feet), Medium tree (25-40 feet)
- Mature height 20-30 feet
- Mature width 20-30 feet
- Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
- Hardiness zones Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7, Zone 8
- Soil preference Acid soil, Moist, well-drained soil
- Drought tolerance Tolerant
- Other tolerances Alkaline soil, Dry sites
- Season of interest mid spring, late spring, early fall, mid fall
- Flower color and fragrance Fragrant, Pink, White
- Shape or form Round
- Growth rate Moderate
- Transplants well Yes
- Wildlife Birds, Browsers, Insect pollinators
- Has cultivars No
