Pacific Crabapple

Malus fusca (Rosaceae) is a deciduous tree native to western North America from Alaska to northern California, typically found at elevations below 1,000 feet. It grows to about 35 feet tall and tends to form thickets through suckering. Small white to pale pink flowers appear in upright clusters (about 2 cm wide) in spring, followed by small yellow-green to reddish fruit.

Pacific crabapple grows in sun to part shade on moist soil (pH 5.0 to 7.0) with high moisture needs. It tolerates wet sites but not truly anaerobic conditions. The fruit is edible but sour, traditionally used for jelly and preserves by indigenous peoples. The species carries an extensive pest and disease profile: 39 documented diseases and 26 pests, requiring monitoring in managed settings. It has significant ecological value as a native pollinator resource and wildlife food source. Hardy in Zones 5a to 8b.