About
Crataegus crus-galli L. is a resilient, broad-crowned deciduous tree that reaches heights of approximately 8 meters. It features prominent thorny branches and glossy, serrated leaves that transition to a vivid scarlet in the fall. In spring, it produces clusters of white flowers, which give way to dark red berries in the autumn. This species serves well as a standalone specimen in landscapes.
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
- Bushy, Spreading branched
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Eastern N America
- 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. Dislikes waterlogging
- Pruning
- Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by grafting in winter or propagate by seed. In autumn, remove flesh as soon as ripe and sow in a seedbed or in containers in a cold frame. In spring, stratify and sow in a seed bed. Make take 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