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Klehm Prairie Crabapple – Malus ioensis 'Klehmii' This variety of the prairie native was developed at the famous Klehm Nursery at Barrington, Illinois. Fruit Trees | Tree Encyclopedia | Tree Index |
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Klehm Prairie Crabapple – this is a mature tree at 30+ years old [2]
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Field identification: Prairie crab apple can be recognized by its unique leaf shape and tomentose stems and inflorescence. Prairie crab apple has been cultivated since 1885, primarily for its showy and fragrant flowers. The fruits are hard and sour, but have been used to make jellies, cider and vinegar. The fruits are eaten by many species of birds and mammals. The Klehm cultivar was developed as an extremely cold-hearty tree for severe Midwestern winters. (Seems silly now!)
Crabapples thrive in full sun and grow best in well drained, slightly acidic soils (pH 5.5-6.5); however, they will grow well in many soil types. Most crabapple selections tolerate the (used to be) cold winters and hot summers prevalent in the American Midwest. |
Crabapples bloom in spring, usually in May, bearing flowers that vary a great deal in color, size, fragrance, and visual appeal. It is common for flower buds to be red, opening to pink or white flowers. The fruit ripens between July and November, and varies in size from ¼â€to 2†long or wide. Crabapples thrive in full sun and grow best in well drained, slightly acidic soils (pH 5.5-6.5); however, they will grow well in many soil types. Most crabapple selections tolerate the cold winters and hot, dry summers prevalent in the Midwest. [3] |
References
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Tree Encyclopedia / North American Insects & Spiders is dedicated to providing scientific and educational resources for our users through use of large images and macro photographs of flora and fauna. |
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Family Rosaceae – Rose Family; Fruit Trees Many of these plants are of vital economic importance, the fruit of which contain vitamins, acids, and sugars and can be used both raw and for making preserves, jam, jelly, candy, wine, brandy, cider and other beverages. Tree Encyclopedia | Tree Index | Fruit Tree Index |