Crab apples often resemble small cherries sprouting from their trees, differing primarily in size and sometimes color.
Crab apples are the fruits of crab apple trees (Malus species). Here’s a breakdown of their appearance:
- Size: The defining characteristic is their small size. By definition, a crab apple is generally considered to be any apple less than 2 inches in diameter. They can sometimes look like large cherries.
- Shape: They are typically round, but can also be oblong or slightly flattened.
- Color: Crab apples come in a variety of colors, including:
- Red
- Yellow
- Green
- Orange
- Combinations of these colors
- Appearance on the Tree: They grow on trees that can range in size from small shrubs to medium-sized trees. The fruits are borne singly or in clusters.
- Distinguishing Features:
- Persistent Calyx: Unlike some cultivated apples, crab apples often retain their calyx (the remnants of the flower at the bottom of the fruit) after ripening.
- Taste: While appearance is key, taste also differentiates them. They are usually tart or sour, and sometimes bitter, making them less palatable for eating raw than cultivated apples.
In summary, crab apples are small, round fruits that can be red, yellow, green, or orange. They often look like cherries growing on a tree, but their small size and typically sour taste distinguish them from regular apples.
