Red Jade Crabapple

Prepare to be enchanted by the Red Jade Crabapple, a tree that transforms landscapes into breathtaking works of art. This elegant ornamental tree captivates with its weeping branches, adorned with fragrant white blossoms in spring and vibrant red fruit in fall. Offering year-round beauty and minimal maintenance, the Red Jade Crabapple is perfect for gardens seeking drama and elegance in every season.

Planting guide

Ensuring a sunny location with well-drained soil will help your Red Jade Crabapple thrive as a stunning focal point in your landscape.

How to plant Red Jade Crabapple trees?

Start by digging a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the tree's root ball to allow room for root expansion. Place the tree in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface, then fill the hole with a mix of native soil and compost. Finish by watering deeply to eliminate air pockets and establish initial moisture for the roots.

When to plant Red Jade Crabapple trees?

The best time to plant a Red Jade Crabapple is in the early spring or fall when temperatures are mild, allowing the tree to establish roots before extreme temperatures occur. Spring planting is preferable in colder climates to avoid frost damage, while fall planting is ideal in moderate climates to encourage root development before winter. Avoid planting during hot summer months or when ground is frozen.

How far apart should you plant Red Jade Crabapple trees?

When planting multiple Red Jade Crabapples, space them about 20 feet apart to give their weeping branches room to cascade beautifully. This spacing ensures that each tree receives ample sunlight and has proper air circulation to reduce disease risk. If planting near structures, maintain a sufficient distance to accommodate the mature width of the tree's canopy.

About

The Red Jade Crabapple is a breathtaking ornamental tree renowned for its elegant, weeping form and beautiful seasonal displays.

How tall does a Red Jade Crabapple tree grow?

At maturity, the Red Jade Crabapple typically reaches a height of 12 to 15 feet, though its ultimate height can vary depending on the grafting point. The tree's height beautifully complements its wide, cascading spread, creating an umbrella-like silhouette. This size makes it an ideal centerpiece for smaller gardens and landscapes.

How long does a Red Jade Crabapple tree live?

With proper care, a Red Jade Crabapple tree can live anywhere from 30 to 70 years, providing decades of beauty and wildlife habitat. Its longevity largely depends on environmental factors, such as climate, soil quality, and pest or disease presence. Regular maintenance and ideal planting conditions will help maximize the tree's lifespan.

How fast do Red Jade Crabapple trees grow?

Red Jade Crabapple trees have a moderate growth rate, typically adding up to 12 inches in height annually. In ideal conditions, they can grow somewhat faster, contributing to their graceful weeping form within a few years. Initial growth focuses on establishing a strong root system, followed by increased branching and canopy development.

How to care for Red Jade Crabapple trees?

Caring for Red Jade Crabapple trees involves ensuring adequate sunlight, moderate watering, and occasional maintenance for optimal health. These trees prefer full sunlight, with at least six hours of direct light daily, and require well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Regular, deep watering will encourage strong root growth, while mulching helps retain soil moisture and control weeds. Monitoring for common diseases and pests is key, as is choosing disease-resistant varieties if necessary.

When to prune Red Jade Crabapple trees?

Prune Red Jade Crabapple trees in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to maintain their graceful form. This timing allows you to clearly see the branch structure without interfering with spring flowering. Avoid summer pruning, as it can stress the tree and decrease flower production for the following season.

How to prune Red Jade Crabapple trees?

To prune, remove any dead, broken, or crossing branches, focusing on maintaining the tree’s natural weeping form. Trim back branches that excessively drag on the ground, ensuring they don’t detract from its cascading beauty. Remove any suckers that sprout from the base to preserve the desired shape and promote healthy growth.