CRAB TREE Meaning and
Definition
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Crab tree is a term used to describe a small deciduous tree belonging to the genus Malus within the Rosaceae family. It typically refers to wild or cultivated varieties of the species Malus sylvestris, also known as the European crab apple.
Crab trees are characterized by their compact size, reaching an average height of 15 to 25 feet (4.6 to 7.6 meters), although some cultivars can grow taller. They have a rounded shape and a dense canopy, which becomes adorned with an attractive display of vibrant flowers during the spring. These flowers are usually white or pink in color and are followed by small fruits, commonly known as crab apples, which ripen in the fall.
The term "crab apple" originated from the Old English word "crabba," meaning "fruit," due to the small size of the apple-like fruits produced by these trees. These crab apples are often tart and sour to taste, making them less desirable for eating raw, but they are commonly used for making jams, jellies, ciders, and preserves. They can also serve as an important source of food for wildlife species such as birds and small mammals.
Crab trees are valued both for their ornamental beauty and for their ecological contributions. They are commonly used in landscaping and gardening due to their showy flowers, attractive fruits, and autumn foliage, which turns into shades of yellow, orange, or red. Additionally, they provide habitat and food for various wildlife, support biodiversity, and can act as natural pollinators for other fruit trees when planted in close proximity. Overall, crab trees are cherished for their aesthetic appeal, ecological significance, and cultural symbolism.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CRAB TREE
- craptree
- xrab tree
- vrab tree
- frab tree
- drab tree
- ceab tree
- cdab tree
- cfab tree
- ctab tree
- c5ab tree
- c4ab tree
- crzb tree
- crsb tree
- crwb tree
- crqb tree
- crav tree
- cran tree
- crah tree
- crag tree
- crab rree
Etymology of CRAB TREE
The word "crab tree" is derived from Old English "crabba" or "crabbe", which meant "crab" or "crab-apple" tree. The term was used to refer to various species of wild apple trees that typically bear sour or bitter fruits. "Crab" in this context comes from the Proto-Germanic word "krab-", which means "hook" or "claw", referring to the shape of the fruit. Over time, "crab tree" has become a commonly used term for small, sour apple trees.
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