Washington hawthorn, Crataegus phaenopyrum

The Washington hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) is a small, deciduous tree that is native to eastern North America. It is a popular ornamental tree, prized for its beautiful flowers, fruits, and fall foliage.

Here are some facts about the Washington hawthorn:

--It typically grows to a height of 25-30 feet (7.6-9.1 meters) with a rounded crown.

--The leaves are lobed and serrated, and they turn orange, red, or purple in the fall.
--The flowers are white and fragrant, and they bloom in late spring or early summer.

--The fruits are small, red berries that persist into winter. The fruits are an important food source for birds and other wildlife.
--The Washington hawthorn is a tough and adaptable tree that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. It is also drought-tolerant once established.
--The Washington hawthorn is a good choice for a hedge or screen, as its thorns can deter deer and other pests.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind if you are considering planting a Washington hawthorn:

--The thorns can be dangerous, so it is important to plant the tree in a location where it will not be a hazard to children or pets.
--The Washington hawthorn can be susceptible to fire blight, a bacterial disease that can kill the tree. However, there are resistant varieties available.
--The Washington hawthorn is a relatively slow-growing tree, so it may take several years for it to reach maturity.

Washington Hawthorn,Crataegus phaenopyrum

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.