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FAQs
Hawthorn is a medium-sized, bushy screening tree that provides excellent habitat for small birds like sparrows. It is suitable for most challenging spots, tolerating dappled shade, poor or flood-prone soil, and exposed coastal sites. Old hawthorn trees are great characters, all gnarled and twisted with plenty of crevices for wildlife.
"Of all the trees that grow so fair,
Old England to adorn,
Greater are none beneath the Sun,
Than Oak, and Ash, and Thorn."
Rudyard Kipling
Whether you choose bare root or pot grown, plant the hawthorn as soon as possible. Dig a large hole twice the width and depth of the roots making sure to use Rootgrow. If the soil is compacted, consider digging it over gently to allow for easier planting. Watch our video on how to plant a country hedge for more advice.
Depending on the species, Hawthorn can be grown as trees, hedges and shrubs. Opt for the Crataegus laevigata Plena (English Double White) for a medium-sized tree ideal for nesting birds. It’s stunningly similar in flower and fragrance to wild roses. For something a little more unusual, try Crataegus laevigata (Crimson Cloud) for a tree with profuse red flowers in May.
Hawthorn carries masses of red berries called haws, from late summer right through to mid-autumn. As the berries darken they attract native garden birds, but if you pick them early they have a clean, sharp flavour, ideal for making syrups and blending your own gin. Hawthorn berries are also used as a herbal remedy for high blood pressure.
Yes, hawthorns are related to the rose. Hawthorn is the common name for most members of the Crataegus genus - a widespread genus in the rose (Rosaceae) family.