Sparkling Sprite® Flowering Crab

Sparkling Sprite® is a compact, top-grafted flowering crabapple with a dense, rounded crown. Pink buds open to white spring flowers, and small golden-yellow fruit matures to orange and persists into winter. ## Form and seasonal interest The tree grows about 12 feet tall and wide. J. Frank Schmidt’s introduction profile describes its bright green summer foliage, abundant persistent fruit, and compact rounded shape; the same page rates its resistance to scab, fire blight, cedar-apple rust, and mildew as excellent. [The JFS Sparkling Sprite profile](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/introductions/sparkling-sprite-crabapple/) provides the plant’s size, flower and fruit details, hardiness rating, and disease-resistance information. ## Growing conditions Plant in full sun for the best flowering and fruit display. Give the rounded crown enough room to develop without crowding nearby trees. The profile lists the selection for USDA Zone 4; cold exposure and local growing conditions can still affect flowering and fruit set. ## Maintenance Water while the tree establishes and during extended dry periods. Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches and retain the compact crown. Leave healthy fruiting growth in place for the winter display, then clear fallen fruit as needed.