This native, small bushy tree or large shrub is very tolerant of coastal, exposed, polluted and damp sites and is popular with wildlife. Crataegus monogyna offers wonderfully varied seasonal interest, starting with dark green, deeply lobed, glossy foliage that acts as a foil to fragrant single white flowers with red anthers in May. After flowering, small dark red haws are produced which are popular with the birds. Leaves turn yellow and bronze in the autumn before falling.
Crataegus monogyna is often used in native hedging mixes, but as a tree you can expect a height and spread of 5 x 4 meters in 20 years. As the name suggests, Common Hawthorn has sharp thorns on its branches which provides a safe nesting place for birds.
AKA Common Hawthorn, Bread and Cheese, Hawthorn, May, Quick, Quickthorn, Whitethorn, May Blossom Tree, Thorn Tree
Also available as bare root whips for €1 each or less between October and March.