Prairifire Crabapple

Malus 'Prairifire'
Planted 2023

The Prairifire Crabapple is one of the favorites of the crabapple family. It is frequently chosen because of its beautiful magenta blossoms in they spring, they stay vibrant until they die off. The foliage is marron when it is new and becomes a dark green as it matures. The fruit is dark red and persists into the winter. The tree does well in various soil types, has good disease resistance, and is drought tolerant.

Prairifire Crabapple
 
Close up of Prairifire Crabapple leaf
 
Prairifire Crabapple bark
Height Width Zone Growth Rate Water Use
20 ft. 20-25 ft. 4-7 Medium Low

Leaf

Alternate and simple. Dark red when new, dark green when mature.

Fruit

Dark red, about 3/8" in diameter, persistent.

Flower

Bright magenta, bloom color does not fade.

Advantages

Adapts to many different soil types, drought tolerant, has good disease resistance.

Disadvantages

Fruit can be considered messy as birds pick it over, prone to scab.