Botanical profile

Malus 'Thunderchild'

Latin name
Malus 'Thunderchild'
Common name
'Thunderchild' Flowering Crabapple
Type
Fruit tree
Family
Rosaceae

Malus 'Thunderchild' is a compact ornamental apple tree with intense purple foliage, distinguished by its spectacular spring bloom of deep pink to magenta flowers, followed by small decorative purplish-red fruits that persist until winter. Its rounded to slightly spreading habit, dense and uniform silhouette, and high disease tolerance make it an excellent choice for solitary plantings, decorative hedges, or colorful beds. The foliage retains a dark purple color throughout the season, then turns coppery in the fall, providing continuous visual interest. Very hardy, 'Thunderchild' prefers a sunny exposure and well-drained soil, and stands out for its vibrant flowering, compact habit, and ease of maintenance, as a highly decorative tree.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Moderate watering
Fertilization
Slow-release fertilizer 14-7-14 or 4-2-8. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke at planting.
Soil type
Slightly acidic to neutral, well drained
Minimum temperature
'-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Pink
Fruiting
Small, purplish-red, ornamental, and persistent fruits
Foliage color
Purple
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Tree-like
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
4 to 5 m (13 to 16 feet)
Width
4 m (13 feet)
Growth rate
average
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Crabapple
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.