Malus Royalty Maiden

Malus ‘Royalty’ (Crab Apple ‘Royalty’) Description: Foliage: ‘Royalty’ is a spreading deciduous tree with attractive ovate leaves that are deep purple in color, transforming into shades of red during the autumn season. The leaves are glossy and pointed, adding to the tree’s aesthetic appeal. Flowers: In spring, the tree produces clusters of large purplish-crimson flowers. These flowers, while striking, can be somewhat concealed within the foliage. Fruits: Following the spring blooms, ‘Royalty’ bears small, dark purple fruits. These fruits contribute to the overall ornamental value of the tree. History: Origin: This cultivar originated as an open-pollinated seedling of the Rosybloom variety and was raised in Canada in 1953. Introduction: It was introduced to the public by Kerr in 1958. Growing Tips: Pollination: Crab Apples, including ‘Royalty,’ are self-fertile. They also serve as effective pollinators for various fruit trees, making them valuable additions to orchards or garden landscapes. Sun and Soil Requirements: ‘Royalty’ thrives in full sun or partial shade. It is best cultivated in fertile, moist, deep, and loamy soils. Pruning: Minimal pruning is required, typically performed in late winter or spring. This is done to eliminate damaged, diseased, or misplaced growth. Height and Spread: Size: After 10 years of growth, ‘Royalty’ is expected to reach a height of approximately 4 meters (13 feet) with a spread of around 3 meters (10 feet). In summary, Malus ‘Royalty’ is a visually appealing crab apple tree with distinctive deep purple leaves, vibrant spring flowers, and small dark purple fruits. Its low maintenance requirements and self-fertile nature make it a practical choice for both ornamental and pollination purposes in gardens and orchards.