<h1>Washington Hawthorn,Crataegus phaenopyrum </h1>

The Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum), is a broadly appealing deciduous tree renowned for its ornamental features, which include attractive white flowers, bright red berries, and glossy green foliage that turns to a striking array of colors in the fall. Native to the southeastern United States, this species is part of the Rosaceae family, which also includes roses, apples, and cherries.

Typically reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet with a similar spread, the Washington Hawthorn makes an excellent choice for residential landscapes due to its manageable size and round, spreading crown. The tree's bark is gray to reddish-brown and slightly flaky, adding to its visual interest throughout the year.

One of the most distinctive features of the Washington Hawthawn is its white flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer. These flowers not only add beauty to the landscape but also attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Following the bloom period, the tree produces small, bright red berries that persist into the winter, providing a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.

The foliage of the Washington Hawthorn is another point of interest. The leaves are small, ovate to diamond-shaped, and have serrated edges. In the fall, the leaves undergo a dramatic transformation, displaying a range of colors from orange to red to purple, adding a vibrant splash of color to the autumn landscape.

While the Washington Hawthorn is a hardy and adaptable tree, it does have a few requirements for optimal growth. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The tree is also relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for a variety of landscapes.

However, potential growers should be aware of the tree's thorny branches, which can make maintenance and placement a consideration. The thorns, while contributing to the tree's defense against browsing animals, can pose a hazard in areas where people or pets frequent.

In summary, the Washington Hawthorn is a versatile and attractive tree that offers year-round interest with its flowers, berries, foliage, and bark. With its moderate size and adaptability, it is an excellent choice for adding beauty and biodiversity to gardens and landscapes.