About
Crataegus ambigua is a medium-sized deciduous tree characterized by its broad form and thorny branches. It features lobed, serrated green leaves with a leathery texture. During late spring, the tree produces clusters of small white flowers, which are accented by purple anthers. These are succeeded by red berries that eventually ripen to a dark purple hue.
About the genus
Crataegus comprises deciduous trees and shrubs characterized by spiny branches and leaves that may be lobed or serrated. These plants produce clusters of creamy-white blossoms, which give way to red or black fruits. Certain species display notable color changes in autumn.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 8-12 metres
- Spread
- wider than 8 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Coastal
- Toxicity
- Seeds contain toxins so these should be removed if you are considering eating the fruit, usually grown as an ornamental shrub Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grows well in most soils, in sun or partial shade. Will not tolerate waterlogging
- Pruning
- Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed or by grafting. Seeds require stratification and may take up to 18 months to germinate
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to caterpillars, aphids and hawthorn button top midge
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to fireblight, honey fungus, crown gall, silver leaf, powdery mildews and leaf spots