Species Washington hawthorn
red fruits and green leaves with light-green veins and midribs on brown twigs and light-brown branches

Washington hawthorn

Crataegus phaenopyrum

Washington hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) is an amazing species of deciduous shrub that provides interest and beauty in all four seasons. From the early spring, its branched clusters of white flowers adorn the naked branches in a stunning display while continuing to provide food and shelter for wildlife. In the summer, its glossy green foliage is graced with clusters of bright red berries, which then mature to an attractive orange-red hue in the autumn. Throughout winter, the show continues, when the plant's striking thorns, lovely silhouettes, and dark, almost-black bark provide a scenic landscape. Washington hawthorn is also easy to care for, making it the perfect addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Rocky , gravelly , dry, Well-drained

Fruits:

red,yellow,orange Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Washington hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. During its active growing season (April through August), it typically requires weekly watering and may need more water during periods of high heat and dryness. During the autumn and winter months, watering should be reduced to once every 2 to 3 weeks depending on weather conditions. Be sure to water in the morning so the foliage has time to dry out during the day.

sunlight

Washington hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) prefers full sun to partial shade. In ideal conditions, the plant should receive about 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. If the plant must receive some shade, then more partial sun (2-4 hours of sunlight) is better than full shade. However, it is important to note that too much shade can cause the tree to become stressed and can potentially stunt its growth.

pruning

Washington hawthorns are best pruned during the winter, while the tree is dormant. Pruning should be done with care to maintain the natural vase shape of the tree. Annual pruning to thin out large branches and remove any dead or broken limbs is recommended to maintain a healthy tree. During the second, third and fourth year of growth, some of the larger shoots can be reduced in length by 1/3 to help promote the desired shape of the tree. After that, pruning should be done lightly with the goal of thinning older branches and removing broken and diseased branches. It is not necessary to prune young trees heavily.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of the fruits from Crataegus phaenopyrum typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Washington hawthorn typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of the fruits from Crataegus phaenopyrum typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map