Pacific Crabapple - qaʔxʷac - (Malus fusca)
The pacific crabapple can be categorized as a slow growing tall shrub or a small tree, standing anywhere from 6.5 - 20ft, and can be easily identified by the fragrant clustering apple blossom flowers, ranging in color from white to pale pink. Its sprawling branches also develop clusters of yellow green apples, characterized by their tart flavor. Native Americans are known to harvest the fruit at the end of summer, then store them away by utilizing the natural acidity of the fruit to preserve itself, allowing them time to soften and sweeten. Pacific crab apples have a preference to grow in moist forests or on the shore of a multitude of wetland regions. Within the ecosystem the pacific crabapple’s leaves and fruit act as a food source for deer and birds, the leaves can provide a home to butterfly larvae, and the flowers are excellent for pollinators.
*Prefers full sun, and partial shade
*Prefers moist soil or wet sites
*Typically grows to 6.5 to 40 feet tall
*Suitable for moist to wet areas, such as wetlands, swamps, or along beaches.
*Sold Bare Root.
*Sold in bundles of 5.
qaʔxʷac *Lushootseed provided by the Puyallup Tribal Language Program and audio by Chris Briden, Puyallup Tribal member.