Crataegus laevigata aka English Hawthorn

Crataegus laevigata is known as English or Midland hawthorn. This member of the rose family comes from Europe. It is native to Britain and Ireland. It grows as a shrub or small tree and sheds its leaves. The crown is broad and rounded, with dense, thorny branches. Garden sources give heights and widths of 15–26 feet [4.6–8 metres]. UConn gives the smaller range, while RHS allows for larger trees. Growth is slow, and full size can take 20–50 years.

The bark is grey-brown, and stems follow a zigzag course. Branches bear thorns about an inch long. These can hurt people working near the tree. Leaves grow in turn along the stems. Each leaf has rounded lobes and fine teeth around its edge. The green leaves have a gloss and reach about 2.5 inches long. Their autumn colour adds little to the display. White or pale pink flowers form flat clusters called corymbs. They bloom from April to May, with timing varying by site. Red pomes ripen in early to mid-autumn. Each fruit measures about half an inch across, and birds eat them.

Full sun suits this tree best, though it accepts partial shade. It prefers moist, fertile soil with good drainage. It grows in clay, loam, sand, or chalk. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. Avoid ground that stays waterlogged. Garden sources give USDA zones 4–7 and UK rating H7. It can grow in exposed, coastal, and town gardens. Use it as a small flowering tree, screen, or wildlife hedge. It tolerates pruning and can regrow after hard cutting. Trim hedges after bloom or in autumn. Its flowers and fruit draw butterflies and birds.

Pests and disease can limit its garden value. Aphids, caterpillars, and gall mites may attack it. Leaf spot, blight, and rust can harm the foliage. Severe attacks may leave branches nearly bare in early summer. Other risks include fireblight, honey fungus, crown gall, and silver leaf. Powdery mildew can also occur. Check both leaves and branches for signs of damage. Its thorns also make placement and hedge work worth care.

PFAF lists fruit, young leaves, and young shoots as foods. The fruit has a dry, mealy flesh. Cooks can use it in jams or preserves. Young leaves can also serve as a tea substitute. RHS warns that seeds contain toxins; remove them before eating fruit. ASPCA lists the plant as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. RHS still advises against pets eating its ornamental fruit. PFAF records herbal uses for heart and circulation problems. It also lists wood, fuel, charcoal, and rootstock uses.