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IIIFolio · plant profile№ E238edible
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Squaw Apple

Peraphyllum ramosissimum
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Peraphyllum ramosissimum (Squaw Apple) — botanical photograph
Pl. E238 — Peraphyllum ramosissimum
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I

Overview

Squaw Apple (Peraphyllum ramosissimum) is a shrub native to the western United States, specifically found in California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Utah. This plant thrives in full sun and can grow in various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It can reach a height of 1.8 meters and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8, making it adaptable to both dry and moist conditions. The fruit of the Squaw Apple is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked, often used in jams and jellies due to its sweet taste. It can also be dried for later use, with simple preparation methods being most common. This plant is a valuable resource in certain regions, contributing to local culinary traditions. While it is not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, its fruit is a nutritious addition to the diet.

Quick answers

What is Squaw Apple?

Squaw Apple (Peraphyllum ramosissimum) is a shrub native to the western United States, specifically found in California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Utah. This plant thrives in full sun and can grow in various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay).

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Squaw Apple thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and can grow up to 1.8 meters tall, making it a shrub. This plant is native to California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Utah, and is drought-tolerant but can also handle moist conditions. For propagation, consider using seeds or cuttings. Regular watering is necessary during dry periods, but the plant can tolerate some drought.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
1.8 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Squaw Apple for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple Squaw Apple shrub to observe its growth and learn about care basics.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Squaw Apple shrub, garden gloves, and a trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure soil drains well; mix in compost if needed. For containers, use a pot with drainage holes and a good quality potting mix.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant the young shrub into your prepared garden bed or container.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly but ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun exposure, water only when the soil feels dry, and prune lightly to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage a healthy structure. Harvest fruit when they are fully ripe.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Squaw Apple's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often used in jams and jellies due to its sweet taste. The fruit can also be dried for later use. Skip the complex recipes; simple preparation methods are most common.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 7 native
Broader regions
native:California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Peraphyllum ramosissimum (Squaw Apple) — botanical photograph
Squaw Apple (Peraphyllum ramosissimum)
XI

Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

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