Snowdrift Flowering Crabapple

Snowdrift is a symmetrical, dense crabapple with an upright, spreading, rounded crown. Pink buds open to single white flowers in spring, followed by small orange-red fruit that persists on the tree; glossy green foliage adds to its display, and the leaves turn yellow-orange in fall. J. Frank Schmidt lists the mature tree at 20 feet high and wide and USDA zone 4; Oregon State describes it as about 20 feet tall, slightly wider, and hardy to zone 3. [J. Frank Schmidt](https://jfschmidt.com/all-trees/snowdrift-crabapple/), [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/malus-snowdrift), [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/malus-snowdrift-snowdrift-crabapple). Plant in full sun and moderately moist soil, leaving room for the rounded crown. This flowering tree works well as an ornamental specimen. Its persistent fruit is a seasonal food source for birds. Like other crabapples, it benefits from modest pruning to remove water sprouts and improve airflow. [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/malus-snowdrift-snowdrift-crabapple). ## Maintenance Prune lightly after flowering to remove water sprouts and crowded branches. Rake fallen fruit if it accumulates on paths or patios.