Crataegus laevigata
Crataegus laevigata
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Description
Crataegus laevigata, commonly known as Midland Hawthorn, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe. It thrives in woodlands, hedgerows, and scrublands, often forming dense thickets that provide shelter and food for wildlife. Its glossy, lobed leaves and clusters of white or pink flowers bloom in late spring, attracting bees and other pollinators. The plant produces small red haws in autumn, which are a vital food source for birds and mammals. Historically, Midland Hawthorn has been used in traditional hedgerow management, playing a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and landscape structure. Its dense growth habit makes it an excellent windbreak and erosion control plant. In regenerative agriculture, Crataegus laevigata is valued for its ability to improve soil health through leaf litter decomposition, which enriches the soil with organic matter. The plant's deep roots help sequester carbon, contributing to climate change mitigation. Its presence in permaculture systems supports biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various species. The plant's aesthetic appeal, with its vibrant spring blossoms and autumn fruits, adds visual interest to landscapes. As we look to the future, Crataegus laevigata holds potential in sustainable agriculture systems, offering ecological benefits and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
Growing Details
Crataegus laevigata is relatively easy to grow, thriving in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant can be propagated from seeds, which require stratification to break dormancy, or from hardwood cuttings taken in winter. Planting should be done in early spring or autumn, with spacing of about 1.5 to 3 meters between plants to allow for growth. Regular watering is necessary during the establishment phase, but mature plants are drought-tolerant. Fertilization is generally not required, as the plant can thrive in nutrient-poor soils. Pruning is recommended to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased wood. In permaculture systems, Crataegus laevigata can be integrated as a windbreak or hedgerow, providing multiple ecological benefits. Organic pest management strategies include encouraging natural predators and using neem oil for pest control.
Edible Parts
Fruit
Flowers
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Scented Plant
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Tea
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Crataegus laevigata</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> — Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Europe, N. Africa
applicable geo region: Temperate zones
language used: english
Flowering:
middle
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of October for 30 days
Seed Start:
middle
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(3/5)
edible uses: The fruits of Crataegus laevigata, known as haws, are edible and can be used in various culinary applications. They are best harvested in late autumn when they are fully ripe. Haws can be eaten raw, though they are often used in cooked preparations due to their mealy texture. They are commonly made into jellies, jams, and syrups, providing a tart flavor that complements sweet dishes. The fruits can also be dried and used in teas or as a flavoring for alcoholic beverages. Nutritionally, haws are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Traditional recipes often include hawthorn jelly, which pairs well with meats and cheeses. The fruits can be stored by drying or freezing, extending their availability beyond the harvest season. In some cultures, haws are used to make a fermented beverage similar to cider.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Crataegus laevigata has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly for cardiovascular health. The plant contains active compounds such as flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins, which have been shown to improve heart function and circulation. Hawthorn is commonly used to treat conditions like hypertension, angina, and heart failure. It is often prepared as a tea, tincture, or capsule, with dosage varying based on the form and intended use. In folk medicine, hawthorn was used to alleviate digestive issues and anxiety. Modern scientific research supports its use for improving heart health, with studies indicating its potential to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Traditional knowledge from European herbalism highlights its calming effects on the nervous system, making it useful for stress-related conditions. Hawthorn is generally considered safe, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using it, especially for those on heart medications.
health concerns: While Crataegus laevigata is generally safe for most people, it can interact with certain medications, particularly those for heart conditions. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using hawthorn if you are taking medications such as beta-blockers or blood pressure drugs. Some individuals may experience mild side effects like dizziness, nausea, or gastrointestinal discomfort. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using hawthorn due to insufficient safety data. Overconsumption of hawthorn can lead to a drop in blood pressure or heart rate, so it is important to adhere to recommended dosages. In case of adverse reactions, discontinue use and seek medical advice.
other uses: Beyond its culinary and medicinal applications, Crataegus laevigata has several non-food uses. Its dense wood is valued for crafting small tools and implements, while its branches are traditionally used in hedgerow construction, providing natural fencing and habitat for wildlife. The plant's flowers and fruits can be used to produce natural dyes, offering shades of yellow and red. In permaculture, Midland Hawthorn is an excellent companion plant, attracting beneficial insects and providing shelter for pollinators. Its deep root system helps stabilize soil, making it useful for erosion control on slopes and riverbanks. The plant's thorny branches offer protection for nesting birds, enhancing biodiversity in managed landscapes. In modern sustainable practices, Crataegus laevigata is appreciated for its role in agroforestry systems, where it contributes to soil health and supports diverse ecosystems.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Crataegus laevigata
common names: Crveni glog
family: Rosaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Crataegus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 4.0 m
spacing: 2.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20°C / 15°C / 25°C
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 18°C / -15°C / 30°C
water demands: Medium
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:
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▁
▁
▁
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(6/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 8.0 m
max width: 6.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Crataegus laevigata is relatively easy to grow, thriving in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant can be propagated from seeds, which require stratification to break dormancy, or from hardwood cuttings taken in winter. Planting should be done in early spring or autumn, with spacing of about 1.5 to 3 meters between plants to allow for growth. Regular watering is necessary during the establishment phase, but mature plants are drought-tolerant. Fertilization is generally not required, as the plant can thrive in nutrient-poor soils. Pruning is recommended to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased wood. In permaculture systems, Crataegus laevigata can be integrated as a windbreak or hedgerow, providing multiple ecological benefits. Organic pest management strategies include encouraging natural predators and using neem oil for pest control.
Potential Disturbances: Crataegus laevigata faces challenges from aphids, hawthorn leaf miners, and fire blight. Aphids cause leaf curling and distortion. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can help manage these pressures.
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