Have you heard of the enchanting Cinderella Crabapple tree? If not, you’re in for a treat!
This exquisite tree is renowned for its stunning pink and white flowers that transform into bountiful golden fruits during the fall.
The Cinderella Crabapple has a short stature that makes it easy to grow in your backyard. It’s an excellent option if you’re seeking a low-maintenance tree that can add a touch of splendid beauty to your outdoor space.
In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the Cinderella Crabapple tree. You will learn all the important physical features, the edibility of its fruit, and creative ways to use crabapples.
You’ll also discover how to grow your own Cinderella Crabapple tree in your backyard. Without further ado, let’s dive in!
What Does it Look Like?
The Cinderella Crabapple tree is a remarkable decorative tree that can enhance the beauty of any outdoor space. This variety is adorned in the spring with a profusion of fragrant pink blossoms covering the entire tree, creating a breathtaking display.
In the fall, this tree produces abundant clusters of tiny crabapples that grow to be a ¼ inch in size. The fruit’s radiant golden hue blends perfectly with the autumn foliage.
The leaves of this tree are dark green and glossy, and they turn into a splendid orange-red hue during autumn, further adding to the ornamental value of this variety.
One of the most distinctive features of this tree is its size. Since the Cinderella Crabapple is a dwarf variety, it only grows to be 8 feet in height with a 5-foot spread. This pint-sized tree makes a welcome addition to small backyard areas or container gardening.
Can You Eat the Crabapples?
While the Cinderella Crabapple is undoubtedly a sight to behold with its beautiful golden hue, the flavor is too tart and sour to eat raw.
The seed and core are poisonous since they contain a toxic compound that can become cyanide when consumed. However, you need to eat a large amount actually to be affected.
To make the most of this fruit, you can incorporate it in several recipes, provided you steer clear of the seeds and cores. Check out some of the best ways to use this visually appealing fruit below.
How to Use Crabapples?
Crabapples are packed full of natural pectic, making these tiny fruits a winning candidate for making delicious jelly and jam. Try this easy crabapple jelly recipe for a decadent condiment that’s bursting with sweet and tart flavors.
If you’re looking for another indulgent treat, try this crabapple butter to create a warm-spiced sauce perfect for dressing up toast, muffins, and baked goods.
Preparing crabapple syrup is another great use for sour fruit. You can pour this tart elixir over ice cream and pancakes or even use it in cocktails. The possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking with crabapples.
But why stop cooking? Consider using crabapples in fall decor by incorporating them into wreaths or centerpieces. Don’t let those unwanted crabapples go to waste. Get creative and make something beautiful with your bounty.
Growing Your Own Cinderella Crabapple Tree
Are you ready to add a touch of magic to your garden? Planting a Cinderella Crabapple tree is relatively easy, but there are a few key steps to ensure its successful growth.
Planting
First, choose a location with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Dig a hole twice as wide and only as deep as the root ball, and mix in some compost or fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Carefully place the tree in the hole and backfill it with soil, tamping firmly around the roots.
You can also check out our guide on planting crabapple trees for the full rundown.
Watering
When watering your Cinderella Crabapple tree, it’s important to soak it deeply and thoroughly rather than giving it a light sprinkle.
This will encourage the roots to grow deeper into the soil, helping to establish a more robust and resilient tree. You should aim to water the tree at least once a week at first and more frequently during periods with no rain.
Once your Cinderella Crabapple tree is established, you only need to water it during dry spells.
Pruning
One of the benefits of the Cinderella Crabapple tree is that it requires very little pruning since it’s slow growing and very small.
You may prune this tree lightly to maintain its shape and structure. If that’s the case, look for any dead, diseased, or damaged branches and remove them with a clean cut using a pair of pruning shears.
Thin out any crowded areas of the tree to allow for better air circulation and sunlight penetration. This will help prevent disease and promote healthy growth. Be sure to make cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a bud or lateral branch.
Check out our guide on pruning crabapple trees for more helpful tips.
Diseases
The Cinderella Crabapple tree has good disease resistance and long-term health prospects. However, it’s not immune to common crabapple diseases.
One of the most common diseases that affect the Cinderella Crabapple tree is apple scab. This fungal disease may cause black spots on the leaves, eventually falling off, leaving the tree looking unsightly.
Another disease that can plague the Cinderella Crabapple tree is powdery mildew. This condition causes a white substance to form on the leaves, which causes them to fall off.
Proper pruning and sanitation practices are crucial to keeping your Cinderella Crabapple tree healthy and disease-free. Doing so can help prevent the spread of these diseases and keep your tree looking enchanting all year round.
Learn more about crabapple tree diseases and how to help ward them off.
Container Gardening
Cinderella Crabapple trees are an ideal choice for container gardening because they are small. If you want to try your hand at container gardening, start by choosing a vessel at least 18 inches in diameter with a drainage hole.
Fill the container with well-draining soil with some compost or fertilizer mixed in. Plant your Cinderella Crabapple tree in your container’s center, ensuring the root ball is level with the top of the soil.
Place your tree in a sunny spot tucked away from any gusts of wind, like against a fence or wall. Maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil by watering often.
With proper care and attention, your Cinderella Crabapple tree will have bountiful blooms, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.
Where to Buy Trees
Are you inspired to add this beauty to your backyard? The only downside of this magnificent tree is that it’s hard to find. Ask around your local nurseries to see if it’s in stock.
Wrapping Up the Cinderella Crabapple Tree
The Cinderella Crabapple tree is a show-stopping tree that’s easy to grow and perfect for small backyards. While its ornamental value is huge, you can use the golden crabapples in many ways, making it a functional and attractive addition to your outdoor space.
Do you want to learn more? Check out our Crabapple Trees page to enhance your green thumb database.