About
Crataegus orientalis is a small, sprawling deciduous tree that typically reaches heights of about 6 meters. Its leaves are deeply lobed, featuring 5 to 9 segments, dark green on the surface with a grayish underside, and they shift to yellow as autumn approaches. The tree produces clusters of fragrant white flowers, often numbering twelve or more, which give way to aromatic fruits that can be red or yellowish-red in color.
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
- H6
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
- Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- SE Europe W Asia
- Fragrance
- Flower, Fruit
- 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
- Will grow in most soils and situations
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to caterpillars, gall mites and aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free but may be susceptible to a leaf spot, fireblight, powdery mildews and honey fungus