Wild crab apple (Peraphyllum ramosissimum)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun
Frost limit: −28.9 °C

Cultivation

Requires a good well-drained neutral or lime-free loam and the maximum possible sunshine in a sheltered position. Closely related to the Amelanchier species.

Propagation

Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe if this is possible otherwise as soon as stored seed is received. Stored seed is likely to require a period of cold stratification. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse or cold frame for their first winter, planting out in late spring. Layering in spring. Takes 12 months.

Edible uses

Fruit - raw or cooked.

Habitat

Dry hillsides.

Native range

Western N. America.