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Common Hawthorn

Crataegus monogyna

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Flowering Months:

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Order:

Rosales

Family:

Rosaceae (Rose)

Also in this family:

Acute Leaf-lobed Lady's-mantle, Alpine Cinquefoil, Alpine Lady's-mantle, Ampfield Cotoneaster, Arran Service Tree, Arran Whitebeam, Barren Strawberry, Bastard Agrimony, Bastard Service Tree, Bearberry Cotoneaster, Bird Cherry, Blackthorn, Bloody Whitebeam, Bramble, Bristol Whitebeam, Broad-leaved Whitebeam, Broadtooth Lady's-mantle, Bronze Pirri-pirri-bur, Bullace Plum, Bullate Cotoneaster, Burnet Rose, Catacol Whitebeam, Caucasian Lady's-mantle, Cheddar Whitebeam, Cherry Laurel, Cherry Plum, Chinese Photinia, Cloudberry, Clustered Lady's-mantle, Common Agrimony, Common Lady's-mantle, Common Medlar, Common Ninebark, Common Whitebeam, Crab Apple, Creeping Chinese Bramble, Creeping Cinquefoil, Crimean Lady's-mantle, Cultivated Apple, Cultivated Pear, Cut-leaved Blackberry, Damson, Devon Whitebeam, Dewberry, Diel's Cotoneaster, Dog Rose, Doward Whitebeam, Dropwort, Elm-leaved Bramble, English Whitebeam, Entire-leaved Cotoneaster, False Salmonberry, Field Rose, Firethorn, Fodder Burnet, Fragrant Agrimony, Franchet's Cotoneaster, Garden Lady's-mantle, Garden Strawberry, Giant Meadowsweet, Glaucous Dog Rose, Goatsbeard Spiraea, Gough's Rock Whitebeam, Great Burnet, Greengage Plum, Grey-leaved Whitebeam, Hairless Lady's-mantle, Hairy Lady's-mantle, Hautbois Strawberry, Himalayan Blackberry, Himalayan Cotoneaster, Himalayan Whitebeam, Hoary Cinquefoil, Hollyberry Cotoneaster, Hupeh Rowan, Hybrid Cinquefoil, Hybrid Geum, Irish Whitebeam, Japanese Cherry, Japanese Quince, Japanese Rose, Jew's Mallow, Juneberry, Lancaster Whitebeam, Late Cotoneaster, Least Lady's-mantle, Least Whitebeam, Leigh Woods Whitebeam, Ley's Whitebeam, Liljefor's Whitebeam, Littleleaf Cotoneaster, Llangollen Whitebeam, Llanthony Whitebeam, Lleyn Cotoneaster, Loganberry, Many-flowered Rose, Margaret's Whitebeam, Marsh Cinquefoil, Meadowsweet, Midland Hawthorn, Mougeot's Whitebeam, Mountain Ash, Mountain Avens, Mountain Sibbaldia, Moupin's Cotoneaster, No Parking Whitebeam, Ocean Spray, Orange Whitebeam, Pale Bridewort, Pale Lady's-mantle, Parsley Piert, Pirri-pirri-bur, Plymouth Pear, Portuguese Laurel, Purple-flowered Raspberry, Quince, Raspberry, Rock Cinquefoil, Rock Lady's-mantle, Rock Whitebeam, Round-leaved Dog Rose, Round-leaved Whitebeam, Rum Cherry, Russian Cinquefoil, Salad Burnet, Sargent's Rowan, Scannell's Whitebeam, Service Tree, Sharp-toothed Whitebeam, Sherard's Downy Rose, Shining Lady's-mantle, Ship Rock Whitebeam, Short-styled Rose, Shrubby Cinquefoil, Silver Lady's-mantle, Silverweed, Slender Parsley Piert, Slender-spined Bramble, Small-flowered Sweetbriar, Small-leaved Sweetbriar, Soft Downy Rose, Somerset Whitebeam, Sorbaria, Sour Cherry, Southern Downy Rose, Southern Lady's-mantle, Spineless Acaena, Spring Cinquefoil, St. Lucie's Cherry, Steeplebush, Stern's Cotoneaster, Stirton's Whitebeam, Stone Bramble, Sulphur Cinquefoil, Swedish Service Tree, Swedish Whitebeam, Sweet Briar, Symond's Yat Whitebeam, Tengyueh Cotoneaster, Thimbleberry, Thin-leaved Whitebeam, Tibetan Cotoneaster, Tormentil, Trailing Tormentil, Tree Cotoneaster, Trefoil Cinquefoil, Twin-cliffs Whitebeam, Two-spined Acaena, Wall Cotoneaster, Water Avens, Waterer's Cotoneaster, Waxy Lady's-mantle, Welsh Cotoneaster, Welsh Whitebeam, White Burnet, White's Whitebeam, White-stemmed Bramble, Wild Cherry, Wild Pear, Wild Plum, Wild Service Tree, Wild Strawberry, Willmott's Whitebeam, Willow-leaved Bridewort, Willow-leaved Cotoneaster, Wineberry, Wood Avens, Wye Whitebeam, Yellow-flowered Strawberry

Type:

Deciduous shrub

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Maximum Size:

10 metres tall

Habitats:

Cliffs, fields, gardens, grassland, heathland, hedgerows, moorland, mountains, parks, riverbanks, riversides, roadsides, rocky places, sand dunes, scrub, sea cliffs, seaside, towns, waterside, woodland.

Flower:

White, 5 petals

Hawthorn flowers in the UK are small and clustered, forming dense, intricate blooms. The flowers typically have a white or pink hue and consist of five-petaled blossoms. These clusters, known as inflorescences, appear in spring, usually during May, creating a picturesque scene in the landscape. The fragrance of Hawthorn flowers is often described as sweet and mildly pleasant. The flowers are an essential component of the plant's reproductive cycle, eventually giving way to the formation of small, red berries known as haws. The delicate beauty of Hawthorn flowers, combined with their seasonal abundance, makes them a notable feature in the British countryside during the spring months.

Fruit:

The fruit of the Hawthorn, known as "haws," is a small, rounded berry that typically matures in the late summer and autumn months. These berries are usually bright red, but some species may produce berries with shades of orange or dark red. The haws are relatively small, measuring around 1/4 to 1/2 inch in diameter. Each berry contains a hard seed within. Despite their diminutive size, Hawthorn berries are an essential food source for various bird species during the colder months. The berries are known for their tart flavor and are occasionally used in culinary applications, herbal teas, or traditional medicine for their reported cardiovascular benefits.

Leaves:

Hawthorn leaves in the UK are typically deciduous, meaning they fall off the tree during the autumn season. These leaves are alternate, meaning they are arranged singly along the stems rather than opposite each other. The leaves are generally lobed, with serrated edges, creating a distinctive and textured appearance. The shape of the leaves can vary between Hawthorn species, but they commonly have an ovate or elliptical form. The leaf color is typically green, and in some species, the leaves may take on reddish or bronze hues in the autumn before falling. The leaves play a crucial role in the tree's photosynthesis process, capturing sunlight to produce energy for the plant. Overall, the foliage of Hawthorn contributes to its visual appeal throughout the growing season.

Aroma:

The fragrance of Hawthorn flowers in the UK is often described as sweet and mildly pleasant. When in bloom, the small, clustered flowers emit a delicate scent that can be noticed in the surrounding area. The fragrance contributes to the overall charm of the Hawthorn during the spring months, attracting pollinators such as bees. While not overpowering, the sweet scent adds to the sensory experience of encountering these blossoms in the British countryside, making them a notable feature in the landscape during their blooming season in spring.

Other Names:

English Hawthorn, Hawberry, Hedgerow Thorn, Mayblossom, Mayflower, Maythorn, May-tree, One-seed Hawthorn, Quickthorn, Single-seeded Hawthorn, Thornapple, Whitethorn.

Frequency (UK):

Abundant

Midland Hawthorn

Summary

Crataegus monogyna, also known as the common hawthorn or single-seeded hawthorn, is a species of hawthorn that is native to Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. It is a small deciduous tree or large shrub, that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It is a long-lived plant that can withstand harsh conditions and is commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, and on rocky hillsides. It is known for its white or pink flowers that appear in the spring, and its red berries that appear in the fall. The tree also has medicinal properties and the leaves, flowers and fruits have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and indigestion. It is also used as an ornamental plant.

Blog

The Common Hawthorn, also known as Crataegus monogyna, is a small deciduous tree or shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This tree is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is widely distributed throughout the temperate regions of the world. The Common Hawthorn is a valuable ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and leaves, as well as its medicinal properties.

Appearance

The Common Hawthorn grows up to 10 meters tall, but usually, it is a small shrub about 2-5 meters in height. It has dark green, lobed leaves that are deeply toothed and up to 6 cm long. The flowers are white or pink, with five petals and a sweet scent. They bloom from May to June and are followed by small red or black fruits, which are called haws. These fruits are edible, but they have a very tart taste.

Habitat and Distribution

The Common Hawthorn is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade. It is commonly found in hedgerows, woodland edges, and scrubland. The tree is widespread in Europe and western Asia and has also been introduced to North America, where it is considered an invasive species.

Uses

The Common Hawthorn has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The leaves, flowers, and fruits are all used for different medicinal purposes. The leaves and flowers are used to make a tea, which is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help reduce anxiety and stress. The fruits are high in vitamin C and are used to make jams, jellies, and wine. In addition, the fruits have been used to treat digestive disorders and heart conditions.

The tree also has cultural significance in some cultures. In Europe, it was traditionally used to decorate May Day festivals, and in Christian mythology, it is said to represent Christ's crown of thorns.

Conservation

The Common Hawthorn is not currently considered threatened or endangered. However, as with many native species, it faces threats from habitat loss and fragmentation due to urbanization, agriculture, and forestry practices. In addition, the tree can be susceptible to pests and diseases, such as fire blight, leaf spot, and rust.

The Common Hawthorn is a valuable plant that has many uses and benefits. Its beautiful flowers and leaves make it a popular ornamental plant, while its medicinal properties and nutritious fruits make it a useful plant in traditional medicine and cuisine. However, as with many native species, it is important to take steps to protect and conserve the Common Hawthorn to ensure its continued survival in the wild.

Propagation

The Common Hawthorn can be propagated by seeds or by cuttings. Seeds can be collected in the fall and sown in the spring. Cuttings can be taken from young, healthy shoots in the summer and rooted in a sandy soil mix.

Wildlife Habitat

The Common Hawthorn is an important habitat for wildlife. The dense branches provide shelter and nesting sites for birds, while the fruits are eaten by a variety of animals, including birds, mammals, and insects.

Traditional Folklore

The Common Hawthorn has a long history in traditional folklore. In European folklore, it was believed that the tree had magical properties and was associated with fairies and witches. It was also thought to protect against evil spirits and was used in many superstitions and rituals. In addition, the tree has been associated with love and romance and was used in wedding ceremonies and love spells.

Modern Uses

In modern times, the Common Hawthorn has been used in herbal medicine for its cardiovascular benefits. Studies have shown that extracts from the tree can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition, the tree is also used in cosmetics and skin care products due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Common Hawthorn is a versatile and valuable tree that has many uses and benefits. Its traditional uses in folklore and medicine have been passed down for centuries, and its modern uses in health and beauty products continue to make it a popular plant. However, it is important to continue to protect and conserve the Common Hawthorn to ensure its survival in the wild and its continued contribution to our lives.

Cultural Significance

The Common Hawthorn has cultural significance in many countries and has been used in traditional ceremonies and celebrations. In Ireland, the tree is associated with the festival of Bealtaine and was believed to have protective powers. In England, the tree was traditionally used as a symbol of spring and was part of the May Day celebrations. In many cultures, the tree is also associated with love and is used in wedding ceremonies and rituals.

Gardening

The Common Hawthorn is a popular plant in gardening and landscaping due to its beautiful flowers and attractive foliage. It is often used in hedgerows, as a specimen tree or shrub, or as a naturalistic planting. The tree is also used as a rootstock for grafting other hawthorn varieties.

Food

The fruits of the Common Hawthorn, known as haws, are edible and have been used in traditional cuisine for centuries. They have a tart, apple-like flavor and can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and pies. The fruits are also used to make hawthorn-flavored sweets and beverages, such as hawthorn candy, tea, and wine.

Symbolism

The Common Hawthorn has been used symbolically in many cultures. In Christian mythology, the tree is said to represent Christ's crown of thorns and is associated with sacrifice and redemption. In some cultures, the tree is also associated with protection, fertility, and renewal.

In conclusion, the Common Hawthorn is a fascinating plant with a rich history and many uses. Its cultural and symbolic significance, as well as its practical applications in medicine, cuisine, and gardening, make it a valuable and beloved plant in many parts of the world. However, it is important to continue to protect and conserve this species to ensure its continued survival and contribution to our lives.

Facts about Common Hawthorn

Sure, here are some facts about the Common Hawthorn:

The Common Hawthorn, also known as Crataegus monogyna, is a deciduous tree or shrub that belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae).
It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia.
The tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a dense, thorny branches and small, lobed leaves.
In the spring, the tree produces clusters of white or pink flowers, followed by red berries called haws in the fall.
The Common Hawthorn has a long history in traditional folklore, where it was believed to have magical properties and was associated with fairies, witches, and love.
The tree has also been used in herbal medicine for its cardiovascular benefits, as well as in cosmetics and skin care products.
The Common Hawthorn is an important habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for a variety of animals and insects.
The tree is also popular in gardening and landscaping, and its fruits are edible and have been used in traditional cuisine.

The Common Hawthorn is a versatile and valuable tree with a long history of cultural significance, traditional uses in folklore and medicine, and modern uses in health and beauty products. It is an important habitat for wildlife and a popular plant in gardening and landscaping, with its attractive foliage and edible fruits. While the tree is widely distributed and appreciated around the world, it is important to continue to protect and conserve this species to ensure its survival and continued contribution to our lives.

Videos

Video 1: Common Hawthorn filmed in Adlington, Lancashire on the 29th August 2022.

Video 2: The Common Hawthorn filmed in several locations throughout 2023.

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Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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