Parsley Hawthorn
crataegus marshallii
Also known as: ["Parsley-leaved Hawthorn","Parsley Hawthorn Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree or large shrub native to the southeastern United States, known for its finely dissected, parsley-like leaves and showy white flowers followed by small red fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Crataegus |
| Botanical Name: | Crataegus marshallii |
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":"–20–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth every few years to rejuvenate the plant.
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 leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateModerate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor leaf color for signs of sunburn; adjust placement based on seasonal sun angle; use shade cloth if necessary in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0); adaptable to a range of soil types.
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds; avoid compacting soil around the root zone; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates cold winters down to -20°F (-29°C); prefers moderate temperatures in summer, ideally 60–80°F (15–27°C).
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in summer; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Test soil before fertilizing; apply fertilizer evenly around the drip line; water thoroughly after application to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer; seeds (stratification required for germination); layering can also be effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds (stratification needed); layering can be done year-round but is best in spring.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light for cuttings; cold stratification for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Hormone
Recommended for cuttings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination can take 1–2 years with stratification; layering roots in 6–12 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk; heading cuts to shorten branches and encourage bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove deadwood, and improve air circulation; focus on structural integrity and fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dormancy; remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or fruiting periods.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Not typically required for outdoor planting; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years to refresh soil and accommodate growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; prune roots if pot-bound; water and place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; dieback or delayed bud break in cold stress; reduced flowering in suboptimal temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn brown or drop; buds may fail to open; growth slows or halts; roots can freeze in poorly insulated soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; protect young plants with burlap screens in harsh winters; avoid planting in low-lying frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may abort; growth may become stunted; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply and mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during heat waves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH and nutrient levels; apply fertilizer in early spring; avoid late-season feeding; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Crataegus species are not heavy feeders; discontinue in late summer to avoid new growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCrataegus marshallii is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would cause harm to felines if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCrataegus marshallii is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would pose a significant health risk to canines if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCrataegus marshallii, commonly known as parsley hawthorn, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crataegus marshallii suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size, but it naturally grows into a medium-sized tree.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, and its fruits are eaten by birds.
Q: How should I prune Crataegus marshallii?
A: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain shape.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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