Malus x soulardii
Malus x soulardiifam. Rosaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Pl. C707 — Malus x soulardii
Malus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardiiMalus x soulardii
IOverview
Overview
Malus x soulardii, commonly known as Soulard crabapple, is a deciduous tree native to Illinois. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It has a hardiness range of 4-8, making it suitable for various climates within its native region. Soulard crabapple is valued for its edible fruit, which can be used in various culinary applications such as fresh consumption, jams, jellies, or pies. The fruit is typically harvested when ripe and enjoyed for its flavor. This tree also has ornamental value, with its blossoms and fruit adding aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes. While it is not medicinal, Soulard crabapple is an excellent choice for those seeking an adaptable, fruit-bearing tree for their home or public garden.
Quick answers
What is Malus x soulardii?
Malus x soulardii, commonly known as Soulard crabapple, is a deciduous tree native to Illinois. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It has a hardiness range of 4-8, making it suitable for various climates within its native region.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Malus x soulardii thrives in full to partial sun, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. It prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This tree is hardy in zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. For propagation, consider grafting or seed sowing. The fruit is edible and can be used for various culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
5.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Malus x soulardii for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Skip in your garden for a simple and rewarding experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip tree, spade, mulch, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is workable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; amend with compost if necessary. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from its nursery pot to the garden or directly plant it in the ground.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Monitor for any signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches and encourage new growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Malus x soulardii is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruit is harvested when ripe and enjoyed fresh, though it may also be cooked into jams, jellies, or pies to enhance its flavor.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 1 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native· 1 introduced
Broader regions
native:Illinois
introduced:Illinois
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · c7076d13-52d2-4604-a5b6-97fab05bc117
Decision aid
Choosing between Malus x soulardii and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.
Newsletter returning soon.
We are rebuilding the update list around a lightweight editorial workflow. New dispatches will resume after the next content review cycle.