Hawthorns (Crataegus sp.)

The hawthorns, or thorn apples, are so numerous in species and varieties, and are so hard to distinguish from each other that the entire group is here treated together. Nearly 200 species of hawthorn reaching tree size are now recognized in the United States, with another 100 of shrub size. Distinctions are exteremly fine and botanists do not agree on classifications. Many of the species now listed may finally prove to be hybrids.

Different species are found on a wide variety of soils and situations, but they have in common many characteristics such as thorns, white blossoms, red or yellow fruit, short, stout trunks, and rather crooked, spreading branches.

Form

Small tree or shrub.

Bark

Generally thin, gray in color and on old stems is broken up into thin, narrow scales.

Leaf

Simple, alternate and notched on the margin.

Flower

Appear in early spring. Most species have fragrant flower but with others the odor is unpleasant.

Fruit

Varies from globular to oblong, from 1/4 to 3/4 inch in diameter. Is edible from some species.

Wood

Heavy, hard, strong and tough, but is rarely used because of its small size.

Notes

Used for ornamental plantings and naturally persist in rough pastures and along roads.