Trident Red is a new selection of crabapple with bright red clusters of fruit with stiff long petioles that hang outwards from the branch. The bright red fruit display is one of the best but the real beauty is the leaves which are a distinct trident shaped with lobes. The foliage is spotless here at my farm and the tree itself is vigorous and healthy without spray. The small fruit is edible off the tree with a distinct tart and acidic flavor but not astringent. It is a good jelly maker.
The bright large white and pink blossoms occur a little later than most crabapples and it is likely it inherited that from its wild counterparts. The broad spreading and open crown make it a non-twiggy crabapple and very symmetrical in shape with wide branching habit and zero problems with limb breakage. The tree is easy to limb upwards because of its dominant leader and can grow into a fruiting tree quickly.
This particular seedling was found in a group of Malus virginiana crabapples from my farm and it was a real standout in terms of others in the seedling bed. It was obvious it was a plant worth growing. It is the clean trifoliar shaped leaves that make this tree as a variety. The seedlings would likely be crossed with nearby Russina crabapple Malus pumila. This would be a great cross to grow from seed as well as grafting."Trident Red" Scions are sent upon request with the purchase of seeds.
Germination of the Seeds: Put in a lightly moist media like Canadian peat moss and store in the refrigerator for 90-120 days. Seeds may sprout earlier so be prepared to pluck them out and plant them right away. Once 90 days has passed put at room temperature and let sprout or direct sow outdoors. They are usually frost resistant to some degree. Or plant the seeds in the fall 1/4 inch deep and lightly tamp with soil. Watch out for pilfering from voles. I use a repellant in the trench or use fish emulsion combined with seaweed to hide the seed and its natural scent.
2024 collection in late November. Processing in November and December
| Plant Specs |
| Genus & Species |
Malus x virginiana x coronaria cross |
| Seed Source |
Seedling found at my farm in the production of crabapples from seeds. |
| Hardiness |
-30 F |
| Pollination Requirements |
Self fertile |
| Soil |
Any soil except wet or low oxygen soils. |
| Climate |
Midwest, Northeastern Zone 3 or so. |
| Ease of Cultivation |
Anyone can grow it from seed or try grafting onto existing apple trees. Trees are easy to establish and could be grown to develop other fruiting cultivars with small fruit and high anthocyanins in the skins along with a higher mineral and vitamin content. Of all the seed I offer of apples, this is the one to grow for new varieties both for syrup and jelly and ornamental appeal. It is one of my best apple discoveries. |
