Malus Royalty Tree (12L, 5-6ft)

If you are looking to add a burst of colour and attract wildlife into your garden, the lovely Malus 'Royalty' is the perfect choice. This small rounded tree offers dramatic glistening purple foliage that sometimes almost looks black. The foliage turns to a vivid red in the autumn and falls in the winter. Contrasted with the dark leaves are the stunning clusters of deep pink and crimson flowers which bloom in spring.

This Crab Apple tree is fully hardy and thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. It will tolerate full sun and partial shade and is tolerant of pollution. It can reach a height of 8m with a spread of 8m, creating a fabulous decorative focal point in a garden. Plant next to an entrance gate, alongside a pond or in a dull corner to add colour and interest.

Unlike other Crab Apple trees, the fruits of the Malus 'Royalty' are not suitable for culinary purposes. They do remain on the tree for a long time and will attract bees, butterflies and birds into your garden throughout the autumn and even into the winter. In winter the bare branches offer ideal roosting perches for birds and they form perfect resting places for night creatures like tawny owls.