Plant Information

Common Name: HAWTHORN - ENGLISH HAWTHORN
Scientific Name: Crataegus laevigata
Alternative Names: Hawthorn, Mayflower, Quickset, Woodland Hawthorn, Midland Hawthorn.

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Description

• Perennial
• Hawthorn is native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
• It is a fully hardy, small tree with a dense crown, thorny branches and shallowly lobed leaves.
• Scented white flowers are produced in late spring followed by dark red egg-shaped fruits, to 1.5cm. long.
• It is frost hardy and not fussy about the soil it grows in - and can even grow in heavy clay soils.
• Hawthorn can grow in full shade, semi-shade and full sun - it prefers moist or wet soil but is also drought tolerant once established.
• It can tolerate strong winds and atmospheric pollution but does not do well where it receives spray from the ocean.
• Trim to shape at any time from late summer to early spring.
• Seeds are separated from ripe berries in autumn.
• Hawthorn is also a popular bonsai species well suited to the following bonsai styles: Formal upright, Informal Upright, Slanting, Cascade, Semi cascade, Broom, Rock-over-root, Clasped-to-rock, Twin-trunk, Clump, Group planting and Saikei.
• As a bonsai it is best kept outside where it can experience the changing seasons.
• During the hottest part of summer, it should be kept in partial shade but can receive full sun for the rest of the year.
• It should be always kept moist, especially during summer

Culinary Uses

• The fruit can be made into jams and preserves.
• Fruit pulp can be dried, ground into a meal and mixed with flour in making bread, etc.
• Young leaves and young shoots are nice in a salad and can also be used as a tea substitute.

Parts Used

• Flower clusters (with leaves) and fruits.

Medicinal Uses. It is said that

• Hawthorn is internally used for circulatory disorders and heart disease of all kinds.
• It improves peripheral circulation and regulates heart rate, blood pressure, and coronary blood flow.
• Hawthorn is also diuretic and antioxidant.
• Sometimes combined with Ginkgo Biloba for poor memory.

The information contained within this website is for educational purposes only. This site merely recounts the traditional uses of specific plants as recorded through history. Always seek advice from a medical practitioner.

Mountain Herb Estate, and its representatives will not be held responsible for the improper use of any plants or documentation provided. By use of this site and the information contained herein you agree to hold harmless Mountain Herb Estate, its affiliates and staff