Centurion Flowering Crabapple

Centurion® crabapple is the trade name for the narrow, upright selection Malus ‘Centzam’. Rose-red flowers open in spring, followed by cherry-red fruit that can remain on the branches through winter. Its upright crown and persistent fruit make it useful where spring bloom and cold-season color are both desired. ## Plant Profile The Morton Arboretum and University of Minnesota describe Centurion as about 15–20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. The Arbor Day Foundation lists a mature height of 20–25 feet and a wider spread range of 15–30 feet, so allow room for a medium-sized tree. These sources identify the selection as Malus ‘Centzam’; the catalog name Centurion is its familiar trade name. [Morton Arboretum](https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/trees-and-plants/crabapple-cultivars/), [University of Minnesota UFOR Nursery & Lab](https://trees.umn.edu/crabapple-malus-spp), and the [Arbor Day Foundation Centurion profile](https://shop.arborday.org/nursery/centurion-crabapple) describe its form, flowers, fruit, and garden use. ## Growing Conditions Choose a sunny site with moist, well-drained soil. Crabapples generally perform best in full sun and adaptable, well-drained ground; local soil and moisture conditions influence growth and fruiting. The Arbor Day Foundation lists Centurion for USDA Zones 4–8. ## Maintenance Prune lightly in late winter or just after flowering to improve structure and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Avoid heavy cuts, which can prompt vigorous water-sprout growth. Remove suckers close to the base as they appear, and leave space beneath the tree for fruit that drops after its display.