White Haw (Crataegus punctata)

White Haw

(Crataegus punctata)

Nadiatalent

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Image By: Nadiatalent

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Copyright Notice: Photo by: Nadiatalent | License Type: Public domain | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/public-domain/ | Uploader: Nadiatalent | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Crataegus_punctata_flowers_1.jpg | Notes: {{Information |Description ={{en|1=Crocosmia aurea - Jardim botanico de Lisboa}} |Source ={{own}} |Author =[[User:Ettore Balocchi|Ettore Balocchi]] |Date =2009-09-14 |Permission = |other_versions = }} [[Category:Crocosmia |

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Crataegus punctata, commonly known as White Haw, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, forest edges, and plains across the Eastern United States and Canada. It typically grows to about 23 feet (7 meters) in height and is noted for its thorny trunk and branches. The plant produces clusters of white flowers in late spring, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators. The flowers give way to edible fruits that mature in late summer to fall, with colors ranging from deep burgundy and scarlet to yellow or yellow with a red cheek. The fruits are tangy and sweet, akin to a crabapple. White Haw’s bark is a distinctive pale grey, providing winter interest in the landscape.

White Haw is valued for its wildlife benefits, as its fruits provide food for birds and mammals. Its thorny nature makes it a good choice for creating defensive hedges or barriers. It is also used ornamentally for its attractive flowers and fruit, and its pale bark stands out in winter gardens. White Haw is adaptable to a range of soil types, from slow to fast drainage, and prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can be susceptible to fire blight and rust diseases. Gardeners should be aware that the thorns can make pruning and maintenance somewhat challenging.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
Height: 20-30 feet
Width: 20-30 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: White
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun
Water: Medium
Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly 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., Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, forest edges, and plains

Other Names

Common Names: Yellowleaf Hawthorn , Dotted Hawthorn , Prickhagtorn

Scientific Names: Crataegus punctata , Crataegus uniflora , Crataegus collina , Crataegus tomentosa , Crataegus collina var. collina , Crataegus punctata var. punctata , Crataegus punctata f. aurea , Crataegus punctata f. intermedia , Crataegus collina var. succincta , Crataegus pratensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Crataegus punctata Jacq.