Prairie Crab Apple (Malus ioensis)

A true native apple indigenous to the Midwestern prairie states, Prairie Crab used to be much more common than it is presently. When most of our Midwestern landscapes were grasslands that had frequent fire return intervals they were more plentiful – but we can help bring them back. Prairie crabs have a shrubby/bushy appearance and make excellent “islands” of cover and shade in old field type habitats that deer and other mammals can rest under on a sunny day. They also make great cover for species such as quail and turkey. The blooms often have a pink tinge to them that is quite the spectacle every spring, and will be covered in pollinating insects that have evolved for millennia to be accustomed to this native species. While the green fruits aren’t the greatest for fresh eating by human standards, they are very tart, high in pectin, and make a great addition to jellies, preserves and such. Oh yeah and deer gobble them up. 

Our seed source comes from a friend at the USDA who found an old planting of what appears to be a "selection" due to the larger than normal size of the fruit, and location in western Tennessee. That location should be Malus coronaria "sweet crab" instead, but it indeed "keys out" as a Malus ioensis "prairie crab." This selection seems to be more resistant and tolerant of cedar apple rust than your average apple. 

Prairie Crab Apple Planting Tips

You can plant these orchard style on a 15-20’ foot spacing, or plant them in clumps for a more natural look on a 10-12’ spacing. Prairie Crab is adapted dry and alkaline soils but does thrive in deep and well drained soils.

Prairie Crab Apple Zone Map