Hawthorn, Green, Bare Root

Green Hawthorn (Crataegus viridis)

Green Hawthorn, also known as Southern Hawthorn, is a beautiful, adaptable native tree with year-round interest, including spring blooms, glossy green foliage, bright red berries, and stunning fall color. Known for its compact size, thorny branches, and dense growth habit, Green Hawthorn is ideal for naturalized plantings, wildlife gardens, and erosion control. Its fragrant white spring flowers attract pollinators, while the berries feed birds and small mammals in late fall and winter. This low-maintenance, disease-resistant tree is suitable for various soils and adds beauty and ecological value to the landscape.

Key Characteristics

• Fragrant Spring Blooms: In late spring, Green Hawthorn produces clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These blooms create a lovely display and provide a valuable nectar source in wildlife-friendly landscapes.

• Bright Red Winter Berries: Following the flowers, clusters of small red berries appear in the fall, lasting well into winter and providing food for birds and small mammals. The berries add winter interest and help support local wildlife.

• Attractive Fall Foliage: Green Hawthorn’s glossy green leaves turn shades of red, orange, and purple in the fall, creating a vibrant display. This multi-season interest makes it an excellent choice for adding color to naturalized areas, woodland edges, and garden borders.

• Disease-Resistant and Low Maintenance: Known for its resistance to common diseases such as rust and leaf spot, Green Hawthorn requires minimal care once established. It tolerates drought and a range of soil types, making it a low-maintenance option for diverse landscapes.

• Wildlife Habitat and Erosion Control: Green Hawthorn’s dense, thorny branches provide excellent shelter for birds, while its strong root system helps control erosion on slopes and streambanks. This tree is a great choice for native plantings focused on wildlife support and soil stability.

Product Details

• Native Range: Eastern and Central United States
• Plant Life Cycle: Deciduous tree
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loamy, and sandy soils
• Mature Height: 20-35 feet
• Bloom Time: Late spring
• Bloom Color: White
• Fruit Color: Red (persists into winter)
• Fall Color: Red, orange, purple
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Green Hawthorn’s year-round interest, wildlife benefits, and easy-care nature make it a valuable choice for gardens, wildlife habitats, and naturalized plantings, providing beauty and ecological function.