Royal Gem Flowering Crabapple

Royal Gem® is sold as the flowering crabapple cultivar Malus ‘Friudlund’. Its fragrant rose-red flowers bloom in spring, followed by red young foliage that matures to dark green and small red fruit that may persist into winter. [Garden Center Marketing’s cultivar profile](https://www.gardencentermarketing.com/plantname/Malus-Friudlund-Royal-Gem) links the Royal Gem name to Friudlund and gives an 8–10-foot mature size; [another exact-selection profile](https://schmalzgardencenter.com/products/crabapple-royal-gem-g10) gives 5–8 feet, so allow roughly 5–10 feet for the tree’s mature height and spread. ## Landscape use Its compact form suits patios, foundation plantings, and confined spaces. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. The [Virginia Tech flowering crabapple guide](https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/content/pubs_ext_vt_edu/en/3010/3010-1483/3010-1483.html) notes that established crabapples tolerate some drought and urban conditions. ## Maintenance Prune only as needed to remove suckers or correct crossing branches and water sprouts. Prune soon after flowering ends so next spring’s flower buds can develop. Fruit may need cleanup when the tree is planted beside pavement.