Contents
Description
The Crataegus Viridis Winter King, also known as the Winter King Green Hawthorn, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is a native of North America and is popularly grown for its ornamental features. This tree can grow up to a height of 20-25 feet and has a spread of 15-20 feet. It has a broad pyramidal crown with glossy green foliage that turns reddish-purple in fall. The Winter King Green Hawthorn produces small white flowers in spring, followed by red berries that persist through winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Crataegus |
Appearance
The Winter King Green Hawthorn has glossy, dark green leaves that are 2-3 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are deeply lobed and have serrated edges. In fall, the leaves turn reddish-purple. The tree produces small white flowers in spring, followed by bright red berries that persist through winter. The Winter King Green Hawthorn has a broad pyramidal crown and a dense branching habit.
Care Guide
The Winter King Green Hawthorn is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the tree regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Winter King Green Hawthorn prefers well-draining, loamy soil.
- Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Winter King Green Hawthorn is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Winter King Green Hawthorn is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fire blight, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, ensure good air circulation around the tree and avoid overhead watering. Insect pests like aphids and spider mites can also infest the tree, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Winter King Green Hawthorn is native to North America and is commonly found in woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types. This tree is also tolerant of urban pollution and is a good option for city landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall does the Winter King Green Hawthorn grow?
A: The tree can grow up to a height of 20-25 feet.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Winter King Green Hawthorn?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: What pests can infest the Winter King Green Hawthorn?
A: Common pests include aphids and spider mites.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize the Winter King Green Hawthorn?
A: Fertilize the tree once a year in early spring.
Related Plants
- Crataegus laevigata (English Hawthorn)
- Crataegus monogyna (Single-seeded Hawthorn)
- Crataegus phaenopyrum (Washington Hawthorn)
References
- The Morton Arboretum. (n.d.). Crataegus viridis ‘Winter King’. Retrieved from https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/winter-king-green-hawthorn
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Crataegus viridis ‘Winter King’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282535&isprofile=0&basic=winter%20king
