Overview

Crataegus monogyna is a bushy, spreading branched tree in the genus Crataegus, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 6.0 m tall. Crataegus monogyna grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include hedging, wildlife garden and ornamental. It is native to Albania, Algeria, Austria, Baleares, Baltic States, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Central European Russia, Corse, Cyprus and Czechia-Slovakia.

About

Crataegus monogyna, known as common hawthorn, whitethorn, one-seed hawthorn, or single-seeded hawthorn, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family, Rosaceae. It grows to about 10 metres tall, producing hermaphrodite flowers in late spring.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Crataegus monogyna

About the genus

Crataegus, commonly called hawthorn, quickthorn, thornapple, May-tree, whitethorn, Mayflower or hawberry, is a genus of several hundred species of shrubs and trees in the family Rosaceae, native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere in Europe, Asia, North Africa and North America. The name "hawthorn" was originally applied to the species native to northern Europe, especially the common hawthorn C. monogyna, and the unmodified name is often so used in Britain and Ireland.

Wikipedia contributors, "Crataegus", CC BY-SA 4.0Crataegus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Crataegus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
acidic, neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Wet
Aspect
North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
full sun
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Crataegus monogyna size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
tree, shrub
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
6.0 m
Suggested uses
hedging, wildlife garden, ornamental
Native to
Albania, Algeria, Austria, Baleares, Baltic States, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Central European Russia, Corse, Cyprus, Czechia-Slovakia
Fragrance
mildly fragrant flowers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Crataegus monogyna

Cultivation
Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; prune to maintain shape and remove dead wood
Pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and remove dead or crossing branches
Propagation
seed, hardwood cuttings, grafting
Pest resistance
Caterpillars, Aphids, Gall mites
Disease resistance
Fireblight, Honey fungus, Crown gall, Silver leaf, Powdery mildews, Leaf spots

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Crataegus monogyna?

Prefers well-drained soil; tolerates a range of soil types; prune to maintain shape and remove dead wood.

Where is the best place to plant Crataegus monogyna?

Crataegus monogyna prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Crataegus monogyna need?

Crataegus monogyna is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.

How do I prune Crataegus monogyna?

Prune in late winter or early spring to shape and remove dead or crossing branches.

How big does Crataegus monogyna grow?

Crataegus monogyna reaches a height of 6.0 m.

Is Crataegus monogyna hardy in the UK?

Crataegus monogyna has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Crataegus monogyna?

Seed, hardwood cuttings, grafting.

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