Malus ‘John Downie’
 
John Downie is a vigorous small, deciduous tree with year-round interest. Noted for its ornamental qualities, it is also considered one of the best fruiting varieties.
 
In early to mid-Spring, pastel pink buds open to a profuse display of single white flowers. This is followed by a heavy crop of large orange-red Crabapples, which are an excellent choice for Crabapple jelly. 
 
The tree is oval in shape. Foliage is green in Spring and summer, turning yellow and orange in Autumn. 
 
Tree Size: 
 
Dwarf: Can be kept to 1.5 m high, but must be supported with a stake
 
Semi-dwarf: 8 m tall x 5 m wide
 
 
Crabapples are small trees that are hardy once established. Grow in full sun to part shade. Will grow well on most soils, but prefers a deep, moist, loamy soil.
 
Pruning requirements are minimal. Prune in winter to achieve a good shape in the early years. 
 
Crabapples are self-fertile, and make useful pollinators for eating and cooking apples.