Hawthorn
Introduction
A flowering tree with small edible fruits, the hawthorn has cultural significance for many ancient cultures. With large white flowers and small red apples, the hawthorn is a delight to see all year-round. .
Common Name
Hawthorn
Latin Name
Crataegus
Leaf
The leaves of most species have lobed or serrate margins and are somewhat variable in shape
Flower
Small, white ball that open into five snow-white petals set around slender stamens with bright pink heads
Fruit/nut
Small and red colored with a fleshy, berry-like exterior
Twig/branches
Smooth with sharp, long thorns
Bark
Smooth grey in young individuals, developing shallow longitudinal fissures with narrow ridges in older trees
Form
Typically pyramidal shape
Size
Usually can grow from 16 to 49 feet tall
Native Range
Native to the Mediterranean region including north Africa and all of Europe and central Asia, and now grows in many areas of North America
Type
Small- to medium-shrub or deciduous tree
Seasonal Colors
Leaves are reddish-purple in spring, changing to dark green in summer, then orange, scarlet or purple in fall
Soil
Will grow in most soils, including alkaline
Light
Sun or partial shade
Similar Species
Cockspur thorn, Japanese hawthorn, redhaw hawthorn
Pests and Diseases
Leaf spot makes leaves turn yellow and drop, and leaf rust attacks the flowers. There are many other common diseases which can affect the hawthorn but none are too serious. A wide variety of pests also attack the hawthorn but the worst among them is the San Jose scale.
Rebate Eligibility
$50
Of Note
The hawthorn berry is one of the best cardiac tonics available, and is often used to treat high blood pressure.
The hawthorn leaf-buds are good cooked (10 to 20 minutes) and have a similar taste to lima beans. They make a great addition to chilis and soups.
The hawthorn has been regarded as the emblem of hope, and its branches are stated to have been carried by the ancient Greeks in wedding processions.
Photo Credits
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