About
Crataegus laevigata is a rounded deciduous tree that typically reaches a height of around 8 meters. It features thorny branches and glossy, shallowly lobed leaves that are mid-green in color. In late spring, the tree produces flattened clusters of flowers that range from white to pink. These blooms give way to red fruit that appears in early autumn.
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
- West-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
- Native to
- NW & C Europe
- 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
- Grow in any (not waterlogged) soil in full sun or part shade. Useful specimen trees for town, coastal or exposed gardens. Use for wildlife hedging. See hawthorn cultivation for further advice
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1; or trim hedges after flowering or in autumn
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to caterpillars, aphids and gall mites
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to fireblight, honey fungus, crown gall, silver leaf, Powdery mildews and leaf spots