Crataegus laevigata
Midland hawthorn
Rounded, thorny, deciduous tree about 8m tall, with glossy, shallowly-lobed mid-green leaves, and fllattened clusters of of white to pink flowers in late spring, followed by red fruit in early autumn
Other common names
albespynebird eagles
see moreEnglish hawthorn
quickset thorn
quickthorn
whitethorn
may
Synonyms
Crataegus oxyacantha misappliedCrataegus oxyacanthoides
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Cream White Pink | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Gold | Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
Crataegus are deciduous trees and shrubs, usually with spiny branches, lobed or toothed leaves, and clusters of creamy-white flowers followed by red or black fruits. Some have fine autumn colour
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- NW & C Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any (not waterlogged) soil in full sun or part shade. Useful specimen trees for town, coastal or exposed gardens. Use for wildlife hedging. See hawthorn cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
Pruning group 1; or trim hedges after flowering or in autumn
Pests
May be susceptible to caterpillars, aphids and gall mites
Diseases
May be susceptible to fireblight, honey fungus, crown gall, silver leaf, Powdery mildews and leaf spots
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.