Malus floribunda facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Malus floribunda |
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The Malus floribunda, also known as the Japanese flowering crabapple, is a lovely tree from Japan and East Asia. People sometimes call it the Japanese crab, purple chokeberry, or showy crabapple. Scientists think it might be a natural mix of two other trees, M. sieboldii and M. baccata. If so, its scientific name would be Malus × floribunda. This tree is popular for its beautiful flowers and small fruits.
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What Does the Japanese Crabapple Look Like?
The Japanese flowering crabapple grows into a round-shaped tree. It is a deciduous tree, which means it loses its leaves in autumn. It can grow up to about 12 meters (40 feet) tall. Its branches arch gracefully, holding narrow leaves.
In spring, the tree bursts with beautiful flowers. These flowers start as deep red buds. When they open, they become white or pale pink. Later in the year, in autumn, the tree produces small fruits. These fruits are either red or yellow and are about 1 centimeter (less than half an inch) wide.
How Strong is the Japanese Crabapple Against Diseases?
This crabapple tree is very good at fighting off common plant diseases. It has strong natural resistance to problems like apple scab and powdery mildew. Apple scab is a fungus that causes spots on leaves and fruit. Powdery mildew is another fungus that looks like white powder on plants.
Because of its strong resistance, Malus floribunda is very important. Scientists started a special project called the PRI disease resistant apple breeding program. They wanted to use the Japanese crabapple's natural strength. They found a special gene in this tree, called the VF gene. This gene helps the tree resist apple scab. The program aims to put this helpful gene into the apples we eat every day. This way, our apples can become stronger and healthier too!
Awards and Recognition for the Japanese Crabapple
The Japanese flowering crabapple is considered one of the best crabapple trees. It is admired for its beautiful shape and lovely flowers. Because of its outstanding qualities, it has received a special honor. The Royal Horticultural Society gave it their Award of Garden Merit. This award is like a prize for plants that are excellent for growing in gardens. It shows that the Malus floribunda is a truly special tree.
See also
In Spanish: Manzano silvestre japonés para niños
