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