Azarole

(Crataegus azarolus)

Azarole (Crataegus azarolus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Crataegus azarolus, commonly known as azarole, azerole, or Mediterranean medlar, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to a variety of habitats in the Mediterranean Basin, including open woodlands, forest edges, and rocky hillsides. It is also prevalent in the Middle East, where it is the most common hawthorn species. This plant typically grows to a height of 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters) with a similar spread, and it features a rounded crown with dense, thorny branches.

The azarole is valued for its ornamental qualities, such as its glossy green leaves, which turn yellow in the fall, and its showy white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers give way to red to orange berry-like fruits (haws), which are larger and more succulent than those of the European common hawthorn, and are edible when ripe in late summer to fall. These fruits are often used in jams, jellies, and liqueurs. Azarole is well-suited for use in urban planting, border planting, and as a wildlife-friendly hedge due to its dense growth and thorns, which provide shelter and food for birds. It thrives in full sun to part shade and adapts to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soils. While it tolerates drought once established, it benefits from medium to high water availability during the growing season. There are no major disease or pest issues, but fire blight and leaf spot can occasionally be problematic. Azarole is not typically invasive when grown outside its native range, but gardeners should monitor for self-seeding.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 10-25 feet
  • Width: 9-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to a variety of habitats in the Mediterranean Basin, including open woodlands, forest edges, and rocky hillsides

Other Names

Common Names: Mediterranean-Medlar, Azerole, Azarolhagtorn, Mediterranean Medlar

Scientific Names: , Crataegus azarolus, Crataegus ×ruscinonensis, Crataegus azarolus subsp. azarolus, Crataegus azarolus var. azarolus, Crataegus aronia var. aronia, Crataegus monogyna subsp. ruscinonensis, Crataegus azarolus subsp. ruscinonensis, Azarolus crataegoides var. dulcis, Azarolus crataegoides var. florifera

GBIF Accepted Name: Crataegus azarolus L.