How to Tell the Difference Between Hall Crabapple and Cherry Blossom Trees? A Detailed Explanation of Their Differences
In spring, when Hall crabapple (Malus halliana) and cherry blossoms are in bloom, they are easy to confuse. Below, we explain their differences from several aspects.
In botanical classification, Hall crabapple belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae), genus Malus (apples), and is a plant endemic to China; cherry blossoms belong to the rose family (Rosaceae), broadly in the genus Prunus and narrowly in the genus Cerasus. Although they share the same family, Rosaceae, their finer classifications differ.
In flower shape, Hall crabapple petals are complete, rounded and elegant, usually with 5or more petals, mostly pink in color; cherry blossom petals have a small notch at the tip, are oval to egg-shaped, and are mostly white or pink.
The flower stalks are also different.Hall crabapple flower stalksare slender and purplish red; during the bud stage they grow upward, and after blooming they clearly droop; cherry blossom flower stalksare short and upright, mostly green, though the flower clusters often point downward.
The leaves are different too.Hall crabapple leaves are small and smooth, oval or elliptical in shape, with a rounded tip, a glossy surface tinged with purple, short soft hairs on the midrib, and no hairs on the rest; cherry blossom leaves are broad, with clear veins and a pointed tip. Cherry blossom leaves are oval-ovate or obovate, with sharp double serrations along the edges, dark green and hairless on top, and light green beneath with sparse soft hairs along the veins.
In terms of other features.Hall crabapple blooms and grows leaves at the same time, its tree form is relatively low, and its crown spreads wide; cherry blossoms usually bloom first and then grow leaves, with the whole tree full of flowers when in bloom and green leaves setting them off once the leaves emerge, and its tree form is taller, with a relatively straight trunk.
In terms of care and appreciation.Hall crabapple likes a location with ample light, but can also tolerate partial shade. It is not demanding about soil, but fears waterlogging. Its flowering period is from March to April, making it a great choice for spring flower viewing; cherry blossoms likewise like a location with ample light, but can also tolerate a certain degree of cold. They are not strict about soil, but fear saline-alkali land. Their flowering period is relatively short, but the flowers are dense and the ornamental effect is excellent.
Hall crabapple and cherry blossoms each have their own unique beauty. Through the comparison of the aspects above, the next time you see them, you will be able to tell them apart easily.