Cinderella is a dwarf crab-apple, ideal for growing in a patio container. It will stay quite small, probably getting to no more than about 1.5m, so is a good choice if you want a crab-apple for a small space.
Unlike most other dwarf crab-apples, which tend to be very columnar, Cinderella has a more spreading habit.
In spring the blossom starts with pink-tipped buds, opening to a mass of white flowers. Autumn brings pretty spherical golden fruitlets.
The lobed leaves are green in the spring and summer, but take on yellow autumnal tints.
We often have Cinderella available as a "top-worked" tree. This means the graft is placed at the top of a short stem, to give a lollipop effect which is particularly attractive for dwarf trees planted in containers.
If planting in a container, make sure you use a reasonably large one - 60L-80L - and fill it with a mix of mainly good topsoil, plus coarse compost, and grit for drainage.
Cinderella is generally easy and reliable to grow, and tolerant of salt spray and urban pollution. It is resistant to most of the diseases which aflict apple trees, and very cold-hardy.
You usually won't need to do any pruning.
Malus Cinderella was developed by Lake County Nursery in Ohio, USA. Its full name is Malus 'Cinzam' Cinderella®.
We list more than 40 different crab-apple trees. Choosing can be difficult! See our article explaining the different characteristics of crab-apple trees which will help you narrow down the selection.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2022.