Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Rosaceae

Genus:

Malus

Species:

Malus orientalis

USDA Symbol:

MAOR9

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Height:

1000 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

apr,may

Bloom Colors:

white, pink

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★★ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, mammals, bees

Fragrant:

Yes

Fall Color:

yellow

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

fertile, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

Prefers soils rich in organic matter

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 60–120 days

Germination Time:

14–60 days

Notes:

Seeds require cold stratification; germination can be erratic. Best sown in fall for natural stratification.