Hawthorn

Crataegus monogyna

Rose family (Roscaeae)

Origin: Europe

Description: Tree up to 18m with a dense crown. Twigs with thorns up to 15mm long. Leaves alternate, 1.5-4.5cm, divided into 3 to 7 entire or toothed lobes reaching more than halfway to the midrib, glossy on the upper surface. Flowers in clusters, 8-15mm diameter, 5-petalled, white or sometimes pale pink, with 1 style. Fruits fleshy, 7-14mm long, globular or ovoid, dark or bright red; seed 1.

Comments: Extremely common as a hedge plant due to its ability to regenerate after the trunk is partially cut and bent horizontally (laying). Interweaving the cut trunks produces a dense, animal-proof barrier.

Similar trees:

• Midland Hawthorn