Common Hawthorn

(Crataegus monogyna)

Common Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Crataegus monogyna, commonly known as Common Hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, hedgerows, and grasslands across Europe, North Africa, and West Asia. It typically grows up to 10 meters (35 feet) tall, with a dense, rounded crown. The bark is dull brown with vertical orange cracks, and the branches may bear sharp thorns. The hermaphrodite flowers, which are white and moderately fragrant, bloom in late spring and are approximately 10 mm in diameter. Each flower has five petals, numerous red stamens, and a single style. The flowers are followed by haws, which are small, oval, dark red fruits about 10 mm long. These pomes contain a single seed and are an important food source for wildlife during winter.

Common Hawthorn is valued for its dense growth habit, making it an excellent choice for hedges and privacy screens. It is also appreciated for its spring flowers and the ornamental quality of its fruit. The plant is easy to maintain and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, though it prefers well-drained soils. It thrives in full sun to part shade. In addition to its use as a hedge, the haws are edible and can be made into various preserves or used to flavor spirits. The young leaves are also edible and can be added to salads. However, gardeners should be aware that Crataegus monogyna can be invasive in some regions, such as California, and should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 12-24 feet
  • Width: 6-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, 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., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, hedgerows, and grasslands across Europe, North Africa, and West Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Singleseed Hawthorn, One-Seed Hawthorn, English Hawthorn, Hedgerow Thorn, May Thorn, Red Hawthorne, One-Seeded Hawthorn, Single-Seed Hawthorn, White Thorn, Engriflet Hvidtjørn

Scientific Names: , Crataegus monogyna, Crataegus oxyacantha, Crataegus monogyna var. monogyna, Crataegus monogyna subsp. monogyna, Crataegus ×subsphaerica, Crataegus ×subsphaericea, Crataegus monogyna subsp. brevispina, Crataegus ×heterodonta, Crataegus ×kyrtostyla

GBIF Accepted Name: Crataegus monogyna Jacq.