Malus ioensis var. texana (Blanco Crabapple)

Blanco Crabapple is a rare Texas gem hiding. A small native tree endemic to the Edwards Plateau, it lights up the spring landscape with clouds of fragrant pink-to-white blossoms before most trees have fully leafed out — a feast for early pollinators and a sight worth planning a garden around. Hardy on thin limestone soils and drought-tolerant once established, it earns its keep in all seasons: showy in flower, cooling in summer shade, generous in fruit for wildlife come fall. Prefers well-drained, limestone soil and some moisture. Blanco Crabapple photo AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Low, medium Sun exposure Sun to part sun Bloom color White, pink Bloom time Spring Mature height 15-25 ft Attracts Birds Host plant Papilio spp. (swallowtail butterflies), various moths Edible Yes, fruit. Notes Native bee and bumble bee friendly. Needs good drainage. DISTRIBUTION MAPS USDA MAP BONAP MAP Present in state Present in county and native Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state Not present in state Present and rare, native in county Previously present, now extinct Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)