What is the flavor profile often associated with the true wild crab apple species, Malus sylvestris?
Answer
Intensely sour or bitter
The text draws a distinction among different types of crab apples, noting that heritage or wild varieties, specifically mentioning *Malus sylvestris* (the true wild crab apple), are known for exhibiting the most extreme flavor profiles. They are characterized by being intensely sour or bitter. This intense flavor is due to a high concentration of malic acid. While still edible when cooked, this profile is much sharper than that of cultivated ornamental types, necessitating significant processing or sweetening to become palatable.
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