German Hawthorn
crataegus germanica
Also known as: ["German Thorn","German May"]
Overview
A deciduous tree or large shrub native to Europe, known for its thorny branches, white flowers, and red berries.
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 germanica |
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":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with amendments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter/early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers/fruit.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct sun on leaves.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; enrich with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F) during growing season.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing dry soil.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer; seed propagation is possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; sterile seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination varies (1–3 months); establishment takes 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle, heating mat.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching; remove crossing or weak stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage airflow; focus on maintaining structure and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or discolor; growth slows; potential for frost damage in extreme cold.
Solution: Mulch around the base; protect with frost cloth in severe cold; ensure good air circulation to prevent frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature fruit drop; reduced flowering/fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; apply at correct time; water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGerman hawthorn is generally considered non-toxic to cats. There are no significant reports of adverse effects when cats come into contact with or ingest small amounts of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGerman hawthorn is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. There are no significant reports of adverse effects when dogs come into contact with or ingest small amounts of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrataegus germanica, commonly known as German hawthorn, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in large quantities. The berries, while generally considered edible, may lead to adverse effects if ingested excessively.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crataegus germanica toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does German Hawthorn attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Crataegus germanica?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring regular maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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