Hawthorn
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Average mature size of 20-30' tall. Typically lives to 40 years, maximum lifespan unknown.

Flower and Fruit Details

Flowers are rose-like, 0.75" diameter, white to pink, 5-petaled flowers with pale yellow anthers are produced in 2-3" clusters, late spring. Fruits are globular to oblong, with good red color, less than 1" diameter, persisting into winter. On some species, these fruits, called haws, can be used to make jelly or jam.

Leaf and Bark Features

Bark is generally thin, gray in color. On old stems it is broken up into thin, narrow scales. Can have thorns or be unarmed.

Culture and Care

Hawthorns generally need a moist location with full sun. They can be grown in almost any well-drained soil.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

Fruit can be made into jelly, and is an excellent food for wildlife - deer also browse on the young growth.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA