AdewebsI’ll tell you something straight off the bat—there’s just something about the Royalty Crabapple Tree that makes folks stop in their tracks. Maybe it’s the bold purple leaves that turn heads in spring, or those little jewel-like fruits that show up later. Whatever it is, this tree isn’t shy about stealing the spotlight.
I remember the first time I planted one at the edge of my yard. I thought it would just be another ornamental tree. Next thing I know, neighbors were leaning over the fence asking, “What’s that purple beauty you’ve got growing there?” That’s when I knew the royalty crab isn’t just another tree—it’s a showpiece.
And if you’re thinking about adding one to your land, garden, or even a small city backyard, stick around. I’ll walk you through what makes it special, what you’ll need to know before you plant, and answer those nagging questions—like, does it shed? Can you eat the fruit? And how much work is this fella gonna take?
What Makes the Royalty Crabapple Tree Special
The royalty crabapple tree, or as folks just call it “royalty crab,” is known for its deep reddish purple leaves and stunning spring blossoms. While other trees are just waking up, this one bursts out with flowers that make it look like it’s dressed up for the May fair.
Farmers and gardeners like it because it’s hardy, tough enough to handle a bit of rough weather, and doesn’t fuss too much once established. In the US or the UK, where the weather can swing from chilly mornings to warm afternoons, that kind of toughness matters.
And don’t let the small fruits fool you. They might not be something you’d eat straight from the branch like a juicy apple, but they’ve got their uses. Folks make jellies, or leave them for the birds who seem to treat them like candy.
Does the Royalty Crab Shed?
Now here’s a question I get a lot: “Is this tree going to make a mess?” Fair point. No one wants to rake up endless piles of soggy fruit.
The truth is, yes, it does drop fruit and leaves, like most crabapple varieties. But it’s not like you’ll be knee-deep in the stuff. If you’ve dealt with oaks or maples shedding in the fall, this won’t feel like a big chore. I usually just let the birds clean up most of the fruit—they do a fine job of it.
Think of it this way. Every tree sheds something, right? That’s nature’s way. With the royalty crab, the trade-off is you get year-round beauty in exchange for a little cleanup now and then.
Planting the Royalty Crabapple Tree
Alright, let’s get into the nuts and bolts. Where and how do you plant this beauty?
First, pick a sunny spot. These trees love the sun the way kids love candy. If you tuck it in too much shade, you’ll get fewer flowers and the leaves won’t pop with the same richness.
Next, think about soil. They’re not fussy eaters, so to speak. Whether you’ve got clay or loamy soil, they’ll usually adapt, as long as you don’t leave their roots sitting in water. Good drainage is key.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, plop the tree in, backfill with soil, and water it in well. That’s the farmer’s way—don’t overcomplicate it. Just make sure it’s straight, unless you’re aiming for the “drunk tree look,” as my neighbor once called his leaning crabapple.
Watering and Feeding
When you first plant your royalty crab, keep it watered for the first season. Think of it like raising a pup—it needs more attention at the start. Once it’s settled, you can ease off, only giving it a good drink during dry spells.
As for feeding, a balanced fertilizer in spring will keep it happy. Nothing fancy. I’ve even tossed some homemade compost tea around mine and it perked up in no time.
Pruning the Royalty Crab
Pruning always makes folks nervous. “What if I cut too much?” they ask. Truth is, these trees don’t need much pruning. A little snip here and there to shape it or remove dead branches is enough.
Best time to prune is late winter or very early spring before new growth kicks in. That way, you won’t be hacking off fresh buds. And don’t go mad with the saw. Less is more with this one.
Common Questions About the Royalty Crabapple Tree
Let’s tackle some of the things folks usually wonder about.
Does the royalty crab attract wildlife?
Oh, absolutely. Birds love the fruit, and the blossoms draw in bees and butterflies. It’s like running a free inn for pollinators and songbirds.
Can you eat the fruit?
You can, but don’t expect a sweet apple taste. The little crabapples are tart, almost puckering. Best used in jellies or as a mix-in for cider.
Does it grow fast?
Not lightning fast, but steady. You’ll see it take off nicely within a few seasons. And because it’s ornamental, you’re in it more for the beauty than for speed.
Will it fit in a small garden?
Yes, sir. Or yes, ma’am. It usually tops out around 15 feet, so it won’t tower over your house or swallow up your lawn.
Does it shed flowers?
Like all blossom trees, it’ll shed petals in spring. But to me, it looks more like confetti scattered on the ground. A bit of cleanup, sure, but pretty as a picture.
A Relatable Farming Scenario
Let me paint you a picture. A few years ago, I had a stretch of the yard that felt empty. Too much grass, not enough character. I decided to plant a royalty crab right by the gate.
Fast forward a couple years, and spring rolls around. I walk out one morning with my coffee, and bam—the whole tree is lit up in blooms. My missus said it looked like the yard had dressed up for Easter.
And here’s the kicker. That same summer, birds made a little haven out of it, perching and pecking at the fruit. What was once a boring patch of yard turned into the most lively corner of the place. That’s the kind of joy this tree can bring.
Pests and Problems
No tree is perfect, not even one with “royalty” in the name. The most common issue with crabapples is apple scab, which makes the leaves look a bit ragged. But if you pick a resistant variety, you won’t be fighting that battle often.
Occasionally, aphids or caterpillars might show up. I usually give the branches a spray with the hose or let the ladybugs handle them. No need for heavy chemicals unless things get really out of hand.
Seasonal Beauty of the Royalty Crab
Spring is when it shows off with blossoms. Summer gives you those deep purple leaves that make it look regal. Autumn brings fruit and a bit of leaf shedding. Winter leaves you with a nice form that doesn’t look bare or sad.
In other words, this isn’t a one-season wonder. You’ll enjoy it all year round.
Is the Royalty Crab Worth Planting?
If you’re after a tree that brings color, wildlife, and character to your land without demanding too much back, the answer is yes. Sure, it sheds a bit, and no, the fruit isn’t a snack you’ll eat straight away. But what it gives in return is far more valuable.
Final Thoughts
The royalty crabapple tree is one of those plantings that makes you smile every season. It’s tough, reliable, and beautiful, which is about as good as it gets in my book.
If you’ve got space for it, give it a go. Don’t fuss too much, just plant it right, give it a bit of care in the early days, and watch it become the centerpiece of your yard.
And here’s my question for you, fellow grower—what corner of your land could use a splash of color and life from a tree like this?
