Species

Malus sargentiiSargent Crabapple

1 other cultivar

‘Select A’Firecracker Crabapple

tree

Tina Sargent Crabapple

Malus sargentii 'Tina'

The Story

Plant Bio

Malus sargentii is a species of crabapple native to Japan, known for its low, wide-spreading habit, fragrant spring flowers, and small, persistent fruit. It is one of the most disease-resistant crabapple species.

'Tina' is a true dwarf cultivar, prized for its profuse bloom of fragrant white flowers from red buds and its tiny, persistent, red fruits. It is often grafted onto a standard to create a small patio tree.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a spectacular spring display with masses of fragrant flowers, followed by attractive, persistent red fruits that add fall and winter interest. Its small size makes it a perfect specimen.

Its dwarf stature makes it ideal for small gardens, patios, containers, and planting under utility lines where larger trees cannot be used.

The flowers are an important early-season nectar and pollen source for bees. The small fruits are eaten by birds like cedar waxwings and robins in late winter.

SpeciesMalus sargentiiSargent Crabapple

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

60 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Medium-lived deciduous tree

Native To

Species from Japan

Toxicity

Seeds are mildly toxic if ingested in quantity

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Plant in well-drained, moderately fertile, loamy soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant so the root flare is at or slightly above ground level.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Ensure good air circulation and full sun to maximize flowering and minimize potential disease issues, though 'Tina' has excellent resistance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for best flower and fruit production.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots.
Prune any suckers that emerge from below the graft union.

Don't

Do not plant in a shady or poorly drained location.
Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizer, which can reduce flowering.
Do not prune in late summer, as this can encourage vulnerable new growth.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Perfect small-space specimen treeContainer plant for patios and decksFocal point in a mixed border

Companion Plants

Tulipa Narcissus Nepeta faassenii Paeonia Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tina Sargent Crabapple questions

What zones can Tina Sargent Crabapple grow in?

Tina Sargent Crabapple is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tina Sargent Crabapple deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Tina Sargent Crabapple, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Tina Sargent Crabapple bloom?

Tina Sargent Crabapple typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tina Sargent Crabapple need full sun?

Tina Sargent Crabapple does best in full sun (6+ hours).