Chestnut Crab crab apple tree

Malus domestica 'Chestnut Crab'

• Picking season: Mid
• Self-fertility: Not self-fertile
• Pollination group: 3
• List of other varieties that will pollinate Chestnut Crab

A large-fruited cold-hardy crab-apple.

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Chestnut Crab crab apple trees for sale

• 1Small 1-year bare-root tree $35.95
  Mature height: 6ft-9ft after 10 years
  Dwarf rootstock
  

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• 2Medium 1-year bare-root tree $35.95
  Mature height: 8ft-12ft after 10 years
  Semi-dwarf rootstock
  

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• 3Large 1-year bare-root tree $35.95
  Mature height: 10ft-16ft after 10 years
  Semi-vigorous rootstock
  

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• 4Full-size 1-year bare-root tree $35.95
  Mature height: 16ft-24ft after 10 years
  P.18 rootstock
  

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Although considered a crab-apple on account of its small fruit size, Chestnut Crab is perhaps best considered an apple that produces very small fruits rather than a true crab-apple.

The fruitlets have a complex sweet flavor, with little of the tartness usually associated with crab-apples.

The juice quality is very good, making it an excellent choice for cider blends.

How to grow

Chestnut Crab is one of the best choices for north-country growers, as it is very cold-hardy.

Advice on fruit tree pollination.

History

Chestnut Crab was developed at the University of Minnesota, and released in 1949. One of its parents is Wealthy, one of the first cold-hardy varieties developed in Minnesota.

Chestnut Crab characteristics

• Gardening skillBeginner
• Self-fertilityNot self-fertile
• Pollination group3
• Pollinating othersAverage
• PloidyDiploid
• WildlifeAttractive to birds Deer.RHS Plants for Pollinators
• Picking seasonMid
• UsesEating freshCulinaryJuiceHard cider
• CroppingGood
• Keeping (of fruit)2-3 weeks
• Flavor style (apples)Sweeter
• Juice styleSharper
• General resistanceGood
• Cedar apple rustSome resistance
• Cold hardiness (USDA)(3) -40F / -40C
• Summer maximum temperaturesCool ( 20-24C / 68-75F)Warm (25-30C / 76-85F)Cold (< 20C / 67F)
• Country of originUnited States
• Period of origin1900 - 1949
• Flesh colourCream
• Fruit colorOrange / Red
• Fruit sizeLarge