Tree
Common hawthorn
Crataegus monogyna
A very hardy deciduous tree with thorny branches, white spring blossom and red haws in autumn. It tolerates sun or partial shade and can be grown as a free-standing tree or kept much smaller as a regularly clipped hedge.
- Size
- 4–10 m high · 4–8 m wide
- Light
- Full sun / Partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Winter
- Very hardy
- Seasonal form
- Deciduous
- Maintenance
- Low
Before planting
- Allow several metres for a free-growing tree; a hedge is a different management form and needs regular clipping.
- Keep thorny branches away from very narrow paths and places where frequent close contact is unavoidable.
Why choose it
- White spring blossom and red autumn haws provide two strong seasonal displays.
- It is robust enough for exposed sites and useful as either a specimen tree or a hedge.
Care
- Water while establishing; mature plants usually need little routine watering in normal garden soil.
- Keep tree pruning light; trim hedges regularly if a compact boundary is required.
Good to know
- Within its native range, common hawthorn is a useful choice for wildlife-friendly hedges and naturalistic planting.