Crab Apple 'Red Sentinel' Fruit Tree 125/150cm 10L Pot Malus 'Red Sentinel'

The Red Sentinel crab apple tree (Malus x robusta 'Red Sentinel') is a highly ornamental variety, perfect for small gardens, especially in urban settings. This broadly upright tree can reach a height of around 6 to 7 metres, making it a suitable choice for limited spaces. Its dark green leaves, which grow up to 8 cm long, provide a striking backdrop to the tree's delicate blooms and vibrant fruit.

In late April, the Red Sentinel crab apple tree bursts into bloom with a profusion of single, white flowers, often tinged with pink, emerging from purple buds. These strongly scented flowers create a balanced and harmonious display, contrasting beautifully with the bright green foliage. The blooms offer a subtle elegance, rather than overwhelming the tree, adding to its refined appeal.

As the season progresses, the tree produces clusters of small, cherry-like fruits, measuring approximately 2.5 cm in width. These glossy, deep red fruits, often with a yellow flush, persist on the branches well into winter, providing long-lasting visual interest. The fruit is not only ornamental but also edible, with a sharp flavour ideal for purées, jellies, and other culinary uses. The fruit's persistence on the branches makes it a valuable winter feature, as it brightens the garden during the colder months. Birds typically begin to peck at the fruit only after it has been softened by a few hard frosts.