About
This medium-sized deciduous tree features a broad, spreading form and is characterized by its long thorns along the branches. The foliage consists of shallowly lobed, serrated green leaves. In late spring, it produces clusters of small white flowers that have yellow anthers, which are succeeded by red berries.
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
- H6
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
- 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