On the smaller side, the Malus Evereste crab apple tree produces white-pink blossoms during the spring. It’s a popular apple variety, perhaps down to its ease of growth and its modest size which will suit a wider variety of people. The crab apples are around 2.5cm in length and can vary in colour from yellow to red.
Native to the UK, the Evereste crab apple tree is hardy and needs minimal care throughout its yearly cycle. It is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family and some of them produce Autumnal colours.
The apples themselves are best used as cooking apples due to their tart flavour. Evereste apples can be used in jams, jellies, wine and cordial – they have so many uses after you have picked them.
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About Malus Evereste
Evereste crab apple trees are pointed in appearance with white-pinkish flowers opening from red buds during the spring.
You can’t help but take in the fragrant, sweet smell that emerges from them upon blooming. Dark green foliage appears during the spring which turns to shades of yellow and orange in time for autumn.
Evereste crab apples don’t look dissimilar to cherries and will grow in small clusters. The apples will vary from red to yellow and they are also one of the more resistant varieties against pests. The fruit appears in the summer but isn’t ready to harvest until autumn and winter.
Growing & Care of Malus Evereste
Evereste crab apple trees do well in the UK as long as they get plenty of sun, making them easy to grow.
Once planted, you should see fruit start developing within 2 to 5 years. They reach their full height in 20 years and can be up to 7 metres in height with a spread of the same value.
Key Features
Here are the headlines on this easy growing crab apple variety. Sure to please for it’s blossom and it’s fruit!
- Best Feature: Smaller and hardier than others
- When To Plant Out: November to March
- Harvest Fruit: Autumn and Winter
- Best Growing Position: Full Sun & Partial Shade
- Soil Type: Chalk, clay, sand or loam
Common Problems
The malus evereste tree is more resistant to pests but this doesn’t mean it is completely immune to pests. Below are some of the more common apple tree pests they may face in their lifetime.
- Caterpillars: Boring into the fruit, caterpillars can be troublesome for fruit trees, including crab apple varieties. They often feed on the seeds in the fruit which can stunt their growth and they may drop prematurely. A good pruning routine can help with this issue and make sure plenty of sun reaches all parts of the tree.
- Greenfly: This type of aphid is attracted to apple trees and they feed on the sap in the foliage. The greenfly population increases rapidly which reduces the nutrients the tree would ordinarily produce. You may notice leaves curling over or not growing properly. Most of the time, predators such as birds will keep such pests from causing too much of a problem.
- Apple Canker: This is a fungal disease that can affect the bark of crab apple trees. It is a fairly noticeable problem as you will be able to see dead areas on the bark. It can cause branches to die altogether and cankers typically form during the spring. Wet or heavy soil is attractive to this fungus so it’s important to look after your soil.
History of Malus Evereste
This variety of crab apples was named after a woman called Eve Reste and not the mountain range, as some sources claim. It has earned the Award of Golden Merit by the RHS and was produced in 1974 here in the UK.
Eating Malus Evereste
Whilst Evereste apples are completely edible, they are quite tart so they are ideal when used in culinary dishes.
It’s valued for the high levels of pectin which makes it simple to create crab apple jellies and jams. They also make a lovely chutney and you might enjoy them caramelised with sugar and cinnamon.
FAQs
Read the most asked questions about Evereste crab apples below.
Malus Evereste crab apples are perfectly edible but maybe a little tart for most people. They are popular to use in sauces or chutneys or can be turned into jelly.
Malus Evereste trees are fairly hardy but will do better with some shelter against the windy conditions. If the tree is too exposed, it can hinder the flower and consequently, fruit production. Placing your tree in a location that is protected from the elements will give it its best chance.