Malus angustifolia
In-game article clicks load inline without leaving the challenge.
Malus angustifolia, or southern crabapple, is a species of crabapple native to the eastern and south-central United States.
Description
M. angustifolia is a tree sometimes attaining a height of 10 meters (33 feet). The trunk can have a diameter up to 25 centimeters (10 inches). The flowers are pink, with a pleasant scent. The fruits are up to 3 cm (1+1⁄4 in) in diameter, and have an aromatic scent and a pear-like shape; yellow-green in color, with some red when ripe.
Taxonomy
The following two varieties are known:
- Malus angustifolia var. angustifolia
- Malus angustifolia var. puberula (Rehder) Rehder
Distribution and habitat
The species can be found from Florida west to eastern Texas and north to New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Illinois and Missouri.
M. angustifolia prefers habitats that are moist but well-drained. For inflorescence to occur, full sunlight is required. The species has been observed in habitat types such as dry hammocks, xeric flatwoods, mesic woodlands, floodplains, and pine woods.
Ecology
The fruits are eaten by various wildlife.
Uses
Although the fruits are astringent, acidic, and unpalatable when raw, they can be used to make jellies, jams, and food preserves.
The tree is grown as an ornamental plant.