Malus floribunda

A small deciduous rounded tree that grows to around 5m tall and 4m wide.

Arching branches produce dark pink buds which open to white flowers flushed pink in October. Occassionally small red fruit follow the flowers. The leaves are green with a serrated edge and in cooler areas turn yellow in autumn.

Grow in moderately fertile soil in full sun or partial shade. Best grown in medium moisture well-drained acidic soil.

Always choose healthy well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows trees and shrubs to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and raising beds. Incorporate coarse sand bark compost or other organic material to improve soil structure. Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth begins.

Tall plants and those in windy positions require staking to stabilize the root ball until established. Position the stakes in the hole before planting and place the plant between them. Use wide ties that hold securely without chafing tie firmly but allow room for the trunk to increase in girth without constriction. This allows the plant to move a little in the wind encouraging development of a strong root system without risk of chafing or root damage

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose but keep mulching material away from the trunk. They benefit from a dressing (50g/m2) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins this will encourage more vigorous healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil taking care not to damage surface roots.

The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods. Pests and diseases can have serious debilitating effects on young plants; check regularly. Check stakes and ties for chafing and constriction and remove as soon as plants are strong enough to withstand winds without damage.

Malus require little maintenance and do not usually require pruning other than to remove deadwood and branches that rub against one another. If pruning is required it should be done in winter while the tree is not in growth. See our pruning leaflet for more information.

Bees love the flowers and birds are attracted to the fruit.

May get powdery mildew in humid conditions and be affected by borer and canker.

Urban Trees