Common Hawthorn
crataegus monogyna
Also known as: ["May","Quickthorn","May Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree or large shrub with thorny branches, known for its white spring flowers and red berries (haws).
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Crataegus |
| Botanical Name: | Crataegus monogyna |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, adaptable to various soil types
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old wood to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun promotes flowering; partial shade acceptable for non-fruiting varieties; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8. Prefers temperate climates with cold winters and moderate summers. Tolerates frost but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost in early spring; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid high-nitrogen products.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer or seed propagation in fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Summer for cuttings; fall for seeds after fruit collection.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and partial shade for cuttings; cold stratification required for seeds.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; well-drained soil for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting system, heating mat.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; protect from direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main stems; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove deadwood, and encourage airflow and fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for container plants.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor planting. Container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years if root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; delayed bud break or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop or turn yellow; buds may fail to open; twigs can die back in severe cold without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect young plants with burlap screens in harsh winters; choose hardy cultivars for cold regions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering and fruiting in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize in spring; use balanced fertilizer; avoid over-application; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially nitrogen-rich formulas, which can reduce flowering.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to cyanide poisoning from the seeds and pips of Crataegus monogyna. Due to their smaller size, even smaller quantities may pose a risk, leading to gastrointestinal and mild neurological disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicSimilar to humans, the seeds and pips of Crataegus monogyna can release cyanide when ingested by dogs. While toxicity is generally mild, large quantities can cause gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and pips of Crataegus monogyna contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide upon digestion. Ingestion in large quantities can lead to mild to moderate toxicity, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hawthorn suitable for hedging?
A: Yes, Crataegus monogyna is commonly used for hedges due to its thorny nature and dense growth habit.
Q: Are the berries edible?
A: The haws are edible but tart; they are often used in jams, jellies, and traditional medicine.
Q: Does Hawthorn attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly valued for attracting bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and berries.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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