Crataegus monogyna

RHS Plant Profile
common hawthorn

Other common names

hedgerow thorn, may, draenen wen

Plants for pollinators
Trees

A rounded deciduous tree to about 10m in height, with thorny branches and glossy, deeply lobed dark green leaves, colouring gold in autumn. Flat sprays of fragrant, creamy-white flowers with pink anthers, are produced in late spring, followed by plentiful dark red edible berries in autumn. The fruit can be made into jellies or used for making herbal tea

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Rosaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
Potentially harmful
Seeds contain toxins so these should be removed if you are considering eating the fruitusually grown as an ornamental shrub Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Crataegus are deciduous trees and shrubs, usually with spiny branches, lobed or toothed leaves, and clusters of creamy-white flowers followed by red or black fruits. Some have fine autumn colour
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Europe N Africa SW Asia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any (not waterlogged) soil in full sun or part shade. Useful specimen trees for town, coastal or exposed gardens. Used extensively for wildlife hedging. See hawthorn cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed, or grafting in winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Hedging and screens
  • Edible fruit

Pruning

Pruning group 1; or trim hedges after flowering or in autumn

Pests

May be susceptible to caterpillars, aphids and gall mites

Diseases

May be susceptible to fireblight, honey fungus, crown gall, silver leaf, powdery mildews and leaf spots