Bare Root | 4–5ft Tall | By Direct Plants
One of the most admired ornamental crab apples, Malus ‘Golden Hornet’ is supplied as a premium bare root tree at 4–5ft tall by Direct Plants. Grown and carefully selected at our award-winning family nursery in Norfolk, this variety is valued for its exceptional fruit display, reliable form, and enduring garden appeal.
‘Golden Hornet’ is particularly renowned for its profusion of golden-yellow fruits, which illuminate the garden from late summer through winter. Combined with spring blossom and attractive autumn colour, it offers year-round interest and a quietly elegant presence suited to both traditional and contemporary gardens.
(Malus ‘Golden Hornet’ – Ornamental, approx. 15–20ft / 4.5–6m at maturity)
In spring, ‘Golden Hornet’ produces masses of delicate white blossom, followed by abundant clusters of bright golden crab apples that persist well into winter. The fruits provide a striking contrast against bare branches and are an important food source for birds. The tree forms a naturally balanced, spreading habit and is widely regarded as one of the finest purely ornamental crab apples available.
Fully hardy and adaptable, it thrives in most soil types and garden positions. It can be planted directly into the ground to reach its full potential or grown in a large container (100 litres or more), where its size can be easily managed for patios and courtyards.
1 premium bare root Malus ‘Golden Hornet’ Crab Apple Tree, approx. 4–5ft tall
Clearly labelled variety for confidence and traceability
Roots carefully wrapped in moist compost to ensure freshness during transit
Delivered in Direct Plants’ bespoke, heavy-duty live tree packaging for safe, secure delivery
Grown and lifted at the optimal time of year by our experienced nursery team in Norfolk, UK
A fully hardy outdoor tree selected for ornamental performance, reliability, and longevity
We specialise in established, high-quality trees that offer immediate structure and lasting value — ideal for gardeners who appreciate excellence from the outset.
Our bare root trees are root-wrapped in moist compost, ensuring they arrive in excellent condition and do not need immediate planting. This allows flexibility while maintaining nursery-fresh quality.
Soak roots in water for 1–2 hours before planting
Dig a hole wide enough to allow the roots to spread naturally
Position the tree so the root flare sits at soil level
Backfill, firm gently, and water thoroughly
Stake if required, especially in exposed locations
Mulch around the base (keeping clear of the trunk) to retain moisture
Water regularly throughout the first growing season
Once established, Malus ‘Golden Hornet’ is low-maintenance and exceptionally rewarding, delivering standout winter colour and refined garden structure year after year.
Whether used as a feature tree, part of a mixed planting scheme, or a focal point in a lawn or border, the Golden Hornet Crab Apple Tree is a timeless, high-quality choice — grown with care and delivered direct from our nursery to your door.
