Crabapple - Gladiator
The Gladiator Crabapple tree is a phenomenal choice for a super hardy, tidy tree that doesn't grow too tall or wide. The dark purple leaves stay on the tree well into October and turn a magenta before they fall off. As the Schubert Chokecherry has become unplantable due to the vicious black knot disease which never completely disappears, the Gladiator Crabapple has become a great replacement with some more admirable qualities. The tree will never grow much wider than 8-10ft so it will fit perfectly in smaller yards and when you run them in a row, the color is intense. The pink flowers in spring cover the tree. This is another tree that is very drought tolerant once established so the first couple of summers are the most important and then you can let up on watering. It can handle clay soil as well.
Gladiator Crabapple — The Chokecherry Replacement 🌸
The Schubert Chokecherry had its run… Black knot ended it. Enter the Gladiator Crabapple (Malus x astringens 'Durleo'). Tougher, cleaner, better-looking, with rich dark purple foliage that stays tight and controlled—perfect for modern yards (8–10' wide).
Spring: explosion of bright pink flowers 🌸
Summer: deep purple leaves hold strong
Fall: shifts into glowing magenta 🔥 that feels electric
Line a few up and you’re making a statement. Handles clay, drought (once established), and thrives across Alberta with minimal care.
Rebel take: Same bold color. Zero drama.
Mature Size: 20' x 8'
Why it belongs in your yard:
- Deep purple foliage all season
- Bright pink spring bloom explosion 🌸
- Magenta fall color that hits hard 🔥
- Perfect size for small yards or tight spaces
- Unreal in rows for serious impact 👀
- Handles clay + drought once established
- Extremely hardy (Zone 2 proven across Alberta)
- Clean, disease-resistant alternative to chokecherry
Rebel tip: Water well for the first couple summers—then it’s low-maintenance and ready to perform.
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Growing Requirements in Alberta: This crabapple is one of the easiest trees to grow in Alberta and it will not require any special care. Water well during the first couple summers and fertilize when looking for extra growth. The tree is happy with all types of soils and can handle sun or part shade.
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