The crabapple is a common garden plant, and its beautiful flowers and graceful form are widely beloved by people. However, there has been ongoing controversy over whether the crabapple is a tree or a flower. This article will start from the classification and characteristics of the crabapple to explore with you whether it is a tree or a flower.
I. Classification of Crabapple Family and Genus
II. Morphological Characteristics of Crabapple
III. Distribution of Chinese Crabapple
IV. Growing Environment of Crabapple
V. Characteristics of Crabapple Tree
VI. Characteristics of Crabapple Flower
VII. Flowering Period and Flower Language of Crabapple
VIII. Propagation Methods of Crabapple
IX. How to Cultivate Crabapple
X. Crabapple and Culture and Art
XI. Crabapple and Traditional Chinese Medicine
XII. Crabapple and Folk Culture
XIII. A Precious Cultural Heritage—Old Crabapple Trees
XIV. How to Appreciate and Protect Crabapple
XV. Conclusion: How to Understand Crabapple
I. Classification of Crabapple Family and Genus
The crabapple belongs to the Rosaceae family, Malus genus. It is a perennial deciduous shrub or small tree, with more than 50 known varieties. In China, it is divided into two types: Chinese crabapple and Western crabapple.
II. Morphological Characteristics of Crabapple
The leaves of the crabapple are elliptical or ovate, with smooth surfaces and serrated edges. The flowers are solitary or two to three clustered at the tips of short branches. The petals are rich in color, appearing in various shades such as white, red, pink, and yellow, making the flowers gorgeous and captivating.
III. Distribution of Chinese Crabapple
The Chinese crabapple is a plant unique to China, mainly distributed in southern regions such as Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai, Fujian, and Guangdong provinces. It is one of the representative flowers in traditional Chinese culture.
IV. Growing Environment of Crabapple
Crabapples prefer a warm and humid environment. They are not demanding on soil quality and have strong shade tolerance, making them suitable for growing in semi-shaded conditions. They also prefer high humidity and relatively stable environmental temperatures.
V. Characteristics of Crabapple Tree
The crabapple can grow into a small tree, reaching a height of over 2 meters. Its trunk is relatively thin with smooth, thornless bark, and the crown is hemispherical or umbrella-shaped. The leaves are dense, creating a lush, green appearance.
VI. Characteristics of Crabapple Flower
Crabapple flowers come in various colors, including red, pink, white, and yellow. They have numerous petals and are cup-shaped, with a diameter of up to about 5 centimeters. The fragrance of the crabapple flower is fresh and pleasant, making it an exceptionally beautiful flower.
VII. Flowering Period and Flower Language of Crabapple
The crabapple blooms from spring to summer. Its flower language symbolizes 'purity,' representing beautiful wishes, cherished memories, and an aspiration for a beautiful future.
VIII. Propagation Methods of Crabapple
The main propagation methods for crabapple are sowing and cuttings. Cuttings are a more common and frequently used method. This involves inserting new shoots in water or coating them with rooting powder before planting them in the soil. Once they have rooted and grown, they are transplanted.
IX. How to Cultivate Crabapple
Crabapple cultivation is mainly divided into several aspects: fertilizer and water management, light management, temperature management, and pruning. To cultivate healthy crabapple plants, proper fertilizer and water management is crucial. Repotting in the spring and fall, replacing the soil with new nutrients, is essential.
X. Crabapple and Culture and Art
The crabapple is a significant element in Chinese culture and art. It appears in numerous classical literary works, such as "The Old Drunkard's Arbour" and "Dream of the Red Chamber." In traditional Chinese painting, the crabapple is revered as the 'king of flowers'.
XI. Crabapple and Traditional Chinese Medicine
Crabapple also holds significant medicinal value in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is primarily used for detoxification, clearing heat, and soothing the throat. Furthermore, it can be employed to treat ailments like colds and pharyngitis.
XII. Crabapple and Folk Culture
The crabapple also holds a significant place in Chinese folk culture. In some areas, related festivals are held, featuring activities such as spring outings to admire the flowers and tasting crabapple wine.
XIII. A Precious Cultural Heritage—Old Crabapple Trees
Old crabapple trees are a species of tree with historical, cultural, and artistic value. They are widely planted in ancient Chinese architecture and gardens, making them a representative garden plant.
XIV. How to Appreciate and Protect Crabapple
To appreciate and protect the crabapple, we need to understand its characteristics and growing environment, and adhere to scientific planting and management practices. Concurrently, we must protect the natural habitats of crabapples, reduce environmental pollution, and safeguard biodiversity.
XV. Conclusion: How to Understand Crabapple
Through an exploration of the crabapple's classification, characteristics, growing environment, propagation methods, and cultivation management, we have gained a deeper understanding of this plant. Knowing the crabapple enables us to cherish its beauty and value even more.