What type of flowering crabapple? - Ask Extension
Hello, hope all is well! At our old house, we had a very nice flowering crabapple tree. My wife would like one at our new house, but since we didn't ...
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What type of flowering crabapple? #926846
Asked March 26, 2026, 4:52 PM EDT
Hello, hope all is well! At our old house, we had a very nice flowering crabapple tree. My wife would like one at our new house, but since we didn't plant the old one, we're unsure of the type. We're thinking it might be a gladiator, but aren't sure since so many pictures online look similar and the colors can vary so much. Do you have any insight? I've attached a couple of photos. Thank you so much, enjoy your afternoon!
Anoka County Minnesota
Expert Response
Brady,
There are so many apples and crabapple varieties that it can be extremely challenging to ID them! I will be of limited help I am afraid.
The leaf color of this tree, the height, general shape, color of flowers, and fruit characteristics are going to be what you'll need to get a rough idea. This chart from a nursery might be helpful.
'Gladiator' is a good guess, my only observation is that the general shape of 'Gladiator' is more vase-like than rounded. 'Purple Prince' might be another good candidate.
Best,
Shane
Hi Shane,
Totally understand, that's the problem we were having as well. Thank you for the chart and suggestion, we appreciate it. Have a great night!
Brady
