Crataegus

Crataegus - Hawthorn Berry Trees - Best In New Zealand!

Growing colourful trees such as the Hawthorn Berry Tree in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space.
• They can be used to provide shade, screening, and shelter.
• They attract birds.
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have the largest variety of Crataegus plants, including Crataegus monogyna, and we have the right one for your space. These Hawthorn trees have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate, and we only stock the highest quality plants; sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy a Crataegus tree, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Crataegus Tree Questions

1. Does hawthorn grow in New Zealand?

Hawthorn grows well in New Zealand. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 10 metres tall, and has has spiny branches and white flowers in spring. The fruits are red and edible, but they are not very tasty.

2. Is hawthorn fast growing?

Hawthorn is a fast-growing plant. It can grow at 40-60 cm per year, and is typically planted as a hedge or specimen tree. It grows quickly to form a dense and prickly barrier. Hawthorn is also a popular choice for bonsai.

3. How to grow Hawthorn

Hawthorn is an easy plant to grow and care for, as it can tolerate a variety of climates. Here are some tips for growing a hawthorn tree:

• Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
• Water regularly, especially during hot weather.
• Feed plants with a balanced fertiliser in spring and summer such as https://www.theplantcompany.co.nz/shop/product/fertiliser/tree-and-shrub-fertiliser
• Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Stake the tree to reduce the chances of wind damage.
• Prune the plant regularly to shape it and encourage new growth.

With proper care, your hawthorn plant will thrive and grow quickly.

4. Where is the best place to plant hawthorn?

The best place to plant hawthorn depends on your intended use for the plant. If you are planting hawthorn as a hedge, choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Hawthorn can tolerate a variety of soil types, but it does like a well-drained soil.

If you are planting hawthorn as a specimen, choose a spot where it will have plenty of room to grow. Hawthorn can grow up to 10 metres tall, so it is important to plant it in a location where it will not be crowded by other plants.

Here are some additional tips for planting hawthorn:

• Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant.
• Backfill the hole with a mixture of garden soil and compost.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with more soil, firming down gently to remove any air pockets.
• Water the plant thoroughly.
• Stake the tree to reduce any chances of wind damage.
• Mulch around the tree to suppress weeds and help retain moisture.

5. Is Crataegus the same as hawthorn?

Crataegus is the same as hawthorn. It is the scientific genus that encompasses several hundred species of shrubs and trees commonly known as hawthorns. So, while "hawthorn" is the common name for the entire genus, "Crataegus" is the precise scientific label for all the individual species within that genus.

• Genus: Crataegus
• Common name: Hawthorn (also has other common names like quickthorn, thornapple, May-tree, whitethorn, Mayflower, or hawberry)
• Examples of species within the genus: Crataegus monogyna (common hawthorn), Crataegus laevigata (English hawthorn), Crataegus pinnatifida (Chinese hawthorn)

6. Does Crataegus monogyna like sun or shade?

Crataegus monogyna, the common hawthorn, enjoys both sun and light shade. While it thrives in full sun where it receives at least six hours of sun per day, it can also tolerate partial shade.

7. Are hawthorn trees any good?

Whether hawthorn trees are "good" or not depends entirely on your perspective and needs! They have both positive and negative aspects, so it's important to consider them carefully before planting one.

Pros:

• Hawthorn trees boast charming features like fragrant white or pink flowers in spring, attractive red berries in autumn, and glossy green leaves. They can add a touch of elegance and seasonal interest to your landscape.
• Their dense foliage and thorny branches provide safe havens and food sources for various birds, small mammals, and insects.
• These hardy trees are relatively low-maintenance, tolerating diverse soil conditions and thriving with minimal pruning.
• Some hawthorn varieties grow quickly, offering a quicker solution for privacy screening or wind protection.
• Once established, hawthorns can live for hundreds of years and withstand harsh weather conditions.
• While the berries' edibility can vary by species, some are used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.

Cons:

• Their sharp thorns can be a nuisance when planting, pruning, or walking near the tree. They may not be suitable for areas frequented by children or pets.
• Some hawthorn species can spread aggressively through suckers and seeds, becoming invasive in certain regions. Check local regulations before planting.
• Falling leaves and berries can create litter and require regular cleanup.
• Hawthorn trees can be prone to certain fungal diseases and insect infestations.
• While some hawthorns have pleasant blossoms, others have a strong, unpleasant odour.

8. Can you plant hawthorn next to a house?

Planting a hawthorn next to your house can be both good and bad, depending on the specific circumstances. Here's things to consider:

Pros:

• Hawthorns offer beautiful spring flowers, colourful berries in autumn, and attractive foliage, adding charm and seasonal interest to your home.
• Hawthorns can grow into dense trees, providing privacy screening and protection from wind.
• The flowers and berries attract birds and other wildlife, adding to the ecological value of your yard.

Cons:

• Thorny branches can be a nuisance around walkways or areas frequently used by children and pets.
• While hawthorns have smaller root systems compared to some large trees, their roots can still grow over time and potentially damage foundations, pipes, or sidewalks near the house.
• Over time, some hawthorn varieties can grow tall and wide, potentially blocking sunlight to windows or overshadowing nearby plants.
• Falling berries and leaves can create litter and require regular cleanup.
• Some hawthorn species can spread aggressively through suckers and seeds, becoming invasive in certain regions.