Hawthorn Crataegus rhipidophylla Play pronunciation

English hawthorn is a small deciduous tree native to most of Europe and the Caucasus and is a member of the rose family (Rosaceae). It is one of the few shade-tolerant hawthorn species, growing in shaded parts of European forests. In its native habitat, it can be found in limestone, granite, or volcanic rock, as well as at sea level and up to elevations of 6000 feet.  It grows 15 to 20 feet tall and has a rounded crown, thorny stems, a profusion of large, white flower clusters in the spring, and showy red fruits from summer to fall. The genus name Crataegus is derived from the Greek word kratos, meaning strength, and refers to the plant's wood. The specific epithet rhipidophylla is derived from two Greek words and refers to the plant's leaves: rhipis, meaning fan, and phyllon, meaning leaf. 

This plant tolerates full sun to partial shade and is adaptable to various well-drained soil types. Most species of hawthorns prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. Once established, it is drought-tolerant, but is intolerant of poorly drained soils or excessive moisture.

English hawthorn has dark green, ovate leaves with 3 to 5 lobes and finely serrated leaf margins. The plant displays clusters of white, five-petaled flowers in mid-spring, followed by dark red pomes up to 0.5 inches long. The fruits are edible and may be used for making jam, jelly, or wine. Many cultivars of English hawthorn, some featuring double flowers, are available in commerce today with flower colors including pink, rose, red, and white. 

The English hawthorn does not display fall color, but the presence of thorns and its tolerance for pruning make it a good candidate as a hedge, and it is widely planted in England as a hedgerow.

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems: Insect pests can include leaf miners, aphids, tent caterpillars, spider mites, and scale. Untreated fungal leaf spot and rust can severely disfigure the foliage. This tree generally does not grow well in hot, humid summers.