Crab Apple 'Maypole Column'

A unique, columnar crab apple, perfect for growing in the tightest of spaces. Apple 'Maypole Column' is both ornamental and productive, delivering spring and autumn impact plus an abundance of crab apple fruits.  

Crab Apple ‘Maypole Column’ grows as an upright column with few side branches, resulting in a narrow tree only a couple of feet wide. Specimens can be topped at any height up to 3.5m. The result is a tree that fits readily into small spaces such as terraces, patios and courtyards, will happily grow in a pot and tolerates dense plantings.

In spring, Crab Apple ‘Maypole Column’ is covered in large, deep pink flowers followed by small, red-maroon fruit with a purplish flush. Leaves emerge reddish before maturing to green with plum tints, providing foliage interest even when not in flower. Its blossom is highly attractive to beneficial insects and ‘Maypole Column’ is an excellent pollinator of other apple varieties.

The fruit is ready to harvest in September and has red-stained flesh that is juicy and firm with a tart flavour. It makes excellent crab apple jelly and sauces. It can also be blended into cider to add sweetness and colour. Height: 3.5m (11.5ft). Spread: 60cm (24in).

Pollination group: B. Crab Apple ‘Maypole’ is partially self-fertile and requires a pollination partner to set fruit successfully.