Pacific Crab Apple

About Pacific Crab Apple
Pacific Crab Apple is a hardy, moisture-loving native tree species that grows along the coast of British Columbia. It produces masses of fragrant white to pale pink blossoms in spring, followed by small, tart apples that ripen in late summer. These fruit are traditionally used for making jelly, cider, and vinegar. A valuable species for pollinators, birds and small mammals, this tree is also attractive as part of a hedgerow or native garden and plays an important role in coastal ecosystems.

Where Can You Grow Pacific Crab Apple?
Pacific Crab Apple thrives in Zones 5–9, especially in coastal regions with cool, moist conditions. It prefers partial to full sun and tolerates a range of soils, including wet or clay-based locations.

History and Historical Uses
Highly valued by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, the fruit of the Pacific Crab Apple was traditionally harvested and stored in water or oil for winter use. The tree’s bark and leaves have also been used in traditional medicine. Today, it remains important both as a cultural species and for its contributions to habitat biodiversity and traditional food systems.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow in fall or cold stratify seeds for spring planting; protect young seedlings from deer.
Zones 5-7: Stratify seeds for 12–16 weeks; plant in spring in moist soils with partial sun.
Zone 4: Start seeds indoors after stratification and transplant once well established outdoors.

How to Grow and Harvest Pacific Crab Apple
Planting: Sow in fall or cold stratify seeds before spring planting. Space trees 4–5m apart in moist soils.
Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged; mature trees are drought tolerant.
Harvesting: Pick fruit in late summer when slightly soft and tart; ideal for jelly and cider making.
Maintenance: Prune in late winter to maintain shape; remove dead or crossing branches.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Select Ripe Fruit: Collect fruit from healthy, mature trees in late summer.
Extract Seeds: Remove seeds from fruit and wash to remove pulp.
Stratify and Store: Cold stratify seeds for 12–16 weeks before planting; store dry in cool conditions.
Viability: Seeds can remain viable for 2–3 years with proper storage.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)