Crataegus mollis aka Arnold Hawthorn

Crataegus mollis, or downy hawthorn, is a deciduous tree. It belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae. Its home range covers eastern and central North America. It extends from Ontario south to Alabama and west to Oklahoma. It grows at woodland edges, in thickets, and on sandy slopes. Fields and roadsides also form part of its habitat.

Garden trees reach 20–40 feet [6.1–12.2 metres] tall. UConn gives a smaller range of 20–30 feet [6.1–9.1 metres]. The rounded crown has broad, spreading branches. NC State gives a spread of 20–40 feet [6.1–12.2 metres]. RHS reports a narrower spread of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Most trees have one trunk, though some have several. Gray bark forms scales as stems age. The stems bend in a zigzag pattern and bear sharp thorns. Broad, simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. Their edges have pointed lobes and sharp teeth. Soft hairs cover the leaf undersides. Fall brings yellow, bronze, or bronze-red leaf color.

White flowers form broad, flat clusters in spring. Bloom dates range from April through June across the sources. The flowers can smell unpleasant, which draws pollinating midges. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds also visit the blooms. Red, apple-like pomes ripen from late summer into fall. Each fruit measures about an inch across. Birds and small mammals eat the fruit. The leaves also feed the caterpillars of several butterflies.

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, and chalk. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. NC State reports drought tolerance and some tolerance of wet soil. RHS warns that it cannot withstand waterlogging. Reported hardiness spans USDA zones 3–8; RHS rates it H7. Growth ranges from slow to moderate in the sources. Pruning can shape it into a hedge or screen. It also serves as a specimen or wildlife-garden tree.

Thorns pose an injury risk near paths and play areas. Aphids, caterpillars, and midges may attack it. Rust, scab, leaf blight, and fireblight can damage the tree. Leaf disease may cause early leaf drop. The fruit flesh is edible raw or cooked, but dry and mealy. Gardeners can use it for jelly and preserves. RHS warns that seeds contain toxins and must be removed. It also warns against pets eating the fruit. The hard, heavy wood suits tool handles and small wooden items.