Southern Crab Apple
Malus angustifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Malus angustifolia (Southern Crab Apple) is a native deciduous tree found throughout the southeastern United States. It produces white to pink flowers in April and May, attracting bees and beetles as pollinators.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
120"–360" H × 120"–360" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Southern crab apple is a small native tree that produces fragrant white to pink flowers in spring followed by small yellow-green fruits. It typically grows 10-30 feet tall with an equal spread, forming a rounded crown that provides excellent shade and seasonal interest.
Growing Southern Crab Apple
Grow Southern Crab Apple in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 120 to 360 inches tall and spread 120 to 360 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Southern Crab Apple is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone, street edge.
- Fruit drop may require occasional cleanup
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract bees and beetles for pollination, while the small fruits feed birds and wildlife throughout fall and winter.
Common questions
- Where is Southern Crab Apple native?
- Southern Crab Apple is native to 21 states across the southeastern and mid-Atlantic United States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
- When does Malus angustifolia bloom?
- Southern Crab Apple typically blooms in April and May, producing fragrant white to pink flowers before the leaves fully emerge.
- What pollinators visit Southern Crab Apple?
- The flowers of Malus angustifolia attract various pollinators including bees and beetles, which are drawn to the nectar and pollen.
- What growing conditions does Southern Crab Apple prefer?
- This adaptable tree tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and various moisture levels, though it performs best with medium water availability.
- Is Southern Crab Apple HOA-friendly?
- Southern Crab Apple is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Southern Crab Apple? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz