Dick's Crab
Species: Malus sp., Crab Apple
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Dick's CrabSpecies: Malus sp., Crab Apple |
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The significance of this Crab Apple tree, which can be found just downhill of the Claw Oak, was first pointed out to the project by Dick Greenaway MBE, a woodland archaeologist who grew up locally.
With an estimated age of around 150 years and a girth of 9 feet 8 inches, this is a particularly large specimen for its species and has therefore taken a well-earned place within our tree inventory. Each autumn, crab trees produce an abundance of crab apples, which are sharper to taste than closely-related domestic apples. Because crabs can retain their fruit longer than many other trees, they can be a useful resource for birds. Shotover Wildlife members have made Crab Apple Jelly from its fruit - a delicious 150 year old flavour! |
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