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Description
Crataegus Viridis, commonly known as the Green Hawthorn, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to the eastern United States and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The tree has a broad, round crown and a short trunk that is usually covered in gray and brown bark. The leaves of the Green Hawthorn are oval-shaped and have serrated edges. They are dark green on top and lighter green on the bottom. The tree blooms in the spring, producing clusters of small, white flowers that give way to bright red berries in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Crataegus |
Appearance
The Green Hawthorn is a small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall with a broad, round crown and a short trunk. The leaves are oval-shaped and dark green on top with lighter green on the bottom. The tree blooms in the spring, producing clusters of small, white flowers that give way to bright red berries in the fall. The bark is gray and brown, and the branches are thorny.
Care Guide
The Green Hawthorn is a hardy tree that requires minimal care once established. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. The Green Hawthorn is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Green Hawthorn is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids or spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The tree can also be susceptible to fire blight, a bacterial disease that causes leaves and branches to wilt and turn black. Infected branches should be pruned immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
The Green Hawthorn is native to the eastern United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Green Hawthorn be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Green Hawthorn can be grown in containers but may not grow as tall as those planted in the ground.
Q: How often should the Green Hawthorn be fertilized?
A: The tree should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Green Hawthorn?
A: The Green Hawthorn is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: What should I do if my Green Hawthorn is infected with fire blight?
A: Infected branches should be pruned immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
Related Plants
- Crataegus Crus-Galli
- Crataegus Laevigata
- Crataegus Monogyna
- Crataegus Pinnatifida
References
- “Crataegus viridis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d240. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
- “Green Hawthorn.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/green-hawthorn. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
- “Crataegus viridis – Green Hawthorn.” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/trees/plants/gr_hawthorn.htm. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021.
