Royalty Flowering Crabapple

Royalty is an ornamental crabapple selected by W. L. Kerr at Sutherland, Saskatchewan. Its dark purple foliage and crimson-purple spring flowers are followed by dark red-purple fruit, giving the tree interest across multiple seasons. ## Form and seasonal color The [USU Varga Arboretum profile](https://extension.usu.edu/botanicalcenter/trees-of-varga-arboretum/royalty-crabapple) lists a mature size of 15–20 feet tall by 15 feet wide. The [Van den Berk cultivar profile](https://www.vdberk.com/trees/malus-royalty/) reports a broader range of 4–6 metres in both dimensions and describes a broad oval crown. Allow room for a spreading canopy. Flowers are single and crimson to nearly purple; the fruit is dark red-purple and may be sparse. The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/71740/malus-royalty/details) describes deep purple leaves that redden in autumn. ## Planting Plant in full sun for strong flowering and foliage color; partial shade is also tolerated. Choose moist, well-drained soil and avoid a site that stays very dry. USU rates water use as low and describes the cultivar as drought tolerant once established. Its dark foliage makes it a useful ornamental specimen where a broad, rounded crabapple crown will fit. ## Maintenance Prune as needed after flowering to maintain the crown and remove crossing or damaged branches. Check for suckers at the base and remove them promptly. Royalty can be susceptible to fire blight and apple scab, so inspect new growth and foliage during the growing season. Fallen fruit may need cleanup near paths and patios.