Crataegus chlorosarca aka Lu Rou Shan Zha

Crataegus chlorosarca is a deciduous tree in the rose family. Its native range runs from Kamchatka to northern and central Japan. Records also place it in Primorye and Sakhalin, in Russia. It comes from temperate parts of Asia. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. In gardens, it reaches about 20 feet (6 metres) tall. Its spread reaches about 15 feet (4.5 metres).

The tree carries leaves from May to October. It flowers in May, and midges pollinate the blooms. Each flower has both male and female parts. Seeds ripen from August to September within black fruits. Each fruit measures about 0.4 inches (1 centimetre) across. The flesh has a dry, mealy texture and a fair flavour. Each fruit holds up to five rather large seeds. These can stick together, forming what feels like one stone.

This tree is easy to grow in a range of soils. It favours loam that holds moisture but drains well. It also grows in sand, heavy clay, and chalk. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline ground. Established trees cope with very moist soil and periods of drought. Full sun gives the best fruit crop and quality. Light shade is suitable, but fruit yields and quality fall. The tree tolerates strong winds, though not salt-laden coastal exposure. It also withstands air pollution and is not frost tender.

A sunny woodland edge is one suitable garden setting. The fruit can be eaten fresh or cooked. It can go into pies and preserves, or be dried. PFAF lists no known hazards for this species. That statement does not establish that every part is safe. Its hard, heavy wood has a fine grain and good toughness. It suits tool handles, mallets, and other small wooden items. PFAF does not flag the species as weedy.

Trees raised from seed can take five to eight years to fruit. Grafted trees may flower well in their third year. Seed propagation calls for patience, since germination can be slow. Fresh seed sown in autumn may sprout the next spring. Much of it may wait until the following year. Stored seed can need both warm and cold treatment. Even after treatment, it may take another eighteen months to sprout.