One of the most familiar ornamental crabs, it provides a dazzling display of reds, pinks and white as its flower buds mature and its plentiful blossom emerges. Introduced c.1862 by Philipp von Siebold (1796–1866).

Originates in Japan.

Cultivated hybrid although true origins are obscure.

Small (10m), with a wide rounded crown and often tangled spreading branches. Twigs soon glabrous. The foliage is secondary to its spectacular flower buds and profuse blossom, falling in early autumn. Leaves 4-8cm, ovate, dull dark green above, paler and downy below, sharply serrate and occasionally 3-5-lobed, on a downy 2-3cm petiole. Flowers 2-3cm on hairy stalks, dark-crimson in bud opening pale pink, then white. Fruit a small globose pome (6-9mm), yellow to red, very numerous.

Despite its diminutive stature, its wide spreading habit makes this unsuitable for small gardens or narrow streets. It is quite demanding of water and nutrients. Partially shade-tolerant.

No notable associations. Thrushes and other birds feed on fruits during winter months.

Susceptible to apple scab, leading to early leaf loss, and also powdery mildews and fireblight.

Ornamental.