The 'Anne E' flowering crab ('Manbeck Weeper') is a spreading weeper and not a true weeper; this tree can be expected to grow to 10-12' in height and width at maturity, with a habit that will see branches growing both toward the ground and away from it. Testing done at Ohio State University and elsewhere on the disease resistance of this cultivar of flowering crab has indicated that it has excellent resistance to apple scab, fire blight and rust.
Because of this slightly irregular growing habit, it's not uncommon to see many branches criss-crossing and rubbing against each other, which can invite pests and disease. For this reason it's recommended to keep the middle of the tree well pruned to maintain the tree's health. New woody growth is an attractive reddish-brown.
The alternately-branched Manbeck Weeper has grass green, serrate foliage approximately 3" in length. Flower buds begin a deep reddish-pink and open to a faded pink and white. Blooms are numerous and their peak show is in mid-May. Fruit growth begins shortly thereafter, starting green and turning a bright red at maturity in early autumn, reaching almost ½" in diameter. Fruit is persistent.
The botanical name has also been seen as Malus baccata 'Anne E.'
Malus 'Candymint Sargent' - Flowering Crab Tree - Tree form is shorter with greater spread, with darker pink blooms.
Malus X 'Sentinel' - Sentinel Flowering Crab Apple - A similar pinkish-white flower but in a much taller tree with a narrow growing habit. Can be susceptible to apple scab.