Crataegus mollis aka Arnold Hawthorn

Taxonomy

Genus Crataegus Family Rosaceae Order Rosales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Crataegus mollis, commonly known as downy hawthorn or red hawthorn, is a species of plant native to Eastern and Central North America. The tree can be found from southeastern North Dakota east to Nova Scotia and southwest to Texas, and prefers wooded bottomlands, prairie border, and the midwestern savanna understorey. It grows to 10–13 m high with a dense crown of thorny branches, ash-grey trunk, and 5–10 cm long leaves, though it tends to lose its foliage in summer due to leaf diseases. It blooms in spring, with white flowers that bear red and edible fruits. These ripen in late summer and fall off soon after. They require two to three years to germinate, and the seeds don’t often become available in the wild. Although uncommon in cultivation, Downy Hawthorn is a super rare houseplant that is not difficult to grow and needs regular watering to thrive. It does well with indirect light and should be within 1 foot of a window, as well as well-draining soil and occasional repotting as it doubles in size. In addition, Gypsy moths, leaf rusts and fireblight affect this species, and the thorns can be hazardous.

Common names

Arnold Hawthorn, Downy Haw, Downy Hawthorn

How to care for Arnold Hawthorn

Difficulty

Arnold Hawthorn requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Arnold Hawthorn should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Arnold Hawthorn loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Arnold Hawthorn requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Arnold Hawthorn will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Arnold Hawthorn is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Arnold Hawthorn’s native range is Eastern and Central N. America - Ontario to Alabama, west to Oklahoma.

More info:
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More Species in Crataegus Genus

Crataegus dispessa Mink Hawthorn

Crataegus armena

Crataegus reverchonii Reverchon's Hawthorn

Crataegus rivularis

Crataegus spathulata Littlehip Hawthorn

Crataegus opaca Apple Haw

Crataegus coccinioides Large Flower Cockspurthorn

Crataegus succulenta Succulent Hawthorn

Crataegus dilatata Black Hawthorn

Crataegus calpodendron Pear Hawthorn